2023-10-24 19:45:09
Does adopting the Mediterranean lifestyle in addition to the Mediterranean diet make people live longer? A recent study has sought the answer to this question.
The study has been led by the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) in Spain.
The Mediterranean diet, recognized for its multiple benefits, could further enhance its positive effects if combined with adequate rest, regular physical activity and an active social life.
This is suggested by the aforementioned study, in which CIBERESP and IMDEA Alimentación have also collaborated.
The study specifically explored the relationship between adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle and the risk of mortality in non-Mediterranean populations.
The research focused on the British population, specifically the UK Biobank cohort, analyzing data from more than 110,000 people aged between 49 and 75 years.
To evaluate the Mediterranean lifestyle, the researchers used the MEDLIFE index, an instrument composed of 25 items that examines habits such as eating, time spent socializing and hours of sleep. Information on mortality was extracted from national registries.
The results lay the foundation for future research on lifestyles in populations with habits different from those of the Mediterranean.
The Mediterranean diet is rich in local fruits, vegetables and greens, such as tomatoes, shown in this image. (Photo: Amazings/NCYT)
An adoptable lifestyle
After a follow-up of more than nine years, the results showed that greater adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle was linked to a lower risk of mortality from all causes, including cancer, and that this lifestyle could reduce the risk of die prematurely by up to 23%.
“The results indicate that it is feasible to adapt a Mediterranean lifestyle in non-Mediterranean populations using locally available products,” emphasizes Dr. Mercedes Sotos-Prieto, professor at the UAM and co-author of the study.
The team had previously investigated the Mediterranean lifestyle, but this time they decided to expand their focus to other geographies.
“This study goes beyond simply promoting the consumption of fruits and vegetables or the practice of exercise. It highlights the importance of considering all the dimensions of our daily lives,” says Javier Maroto-Rodríguez, researcher at the UAM and co-author of the study.
“Maintaining frequent interaction with friends and family, ensuring a good night’s rest and choosing healthy foods and drinks can have a significant positive impact on our long-term health,” concludes the researcher.
The study is entitled “Association of a Mediterranean Lifestyle With All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: A Prospective Study from the UK Biobank”. And it has been published in the academic journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings. (Source: UAM)
#Mediterranean #diet #Mediterranean #lifestyle