Eating well and losing weight: Do they really go together? In the case of the Mediterranean diet, they definitely do. And what’s more, the Mediterranean diet is effective in preventing diseases ranging from cardiovascular problems to cancer and multiple sclerosis. It’s therefore no wonder that this type of diet is recommended by many experts, especially in the context of overweight and obesity. And it also plays a key role in Oviva’s app-supported weight loss programs.
What is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet goes back to the eating habits of the Mediterranean countries in the 1950s and 1960s. The cuisine of Greece and southern Italy in particular is taken into account. So: lots of olive oil, lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grain products and fish and seafood containing omega-3. Meat is also on the menu, along with nuts, eggs, dairy products and a glass of wine with the meal.
If you look at the nutritional balance, the Mediterranean diet contains a relatively high amount of fat, at 35-40 percent, mainly due to the extensive use of olive oil. The protein content is around 20-25 percent, and the carbohydrate content around 40-45 percent. The fiber content is high. Micronutrients, i.e. vitamins and minerals, are also present thanks to the large amount of fresh food.
How healthy is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet has been the subject of nutritional and medical research for years. There is evidence of a positive effect on the following diseases:
- Alzheimer’s dementia
- Chronic inflammation
- Insulin resistance
- multiple sclerosis
- Crohn’s disease
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cancer
Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are considered widespread diseases in our modern society. They are often associated with obesity.
Can you lose weight with the Mediterranean diet?
If you eat a Mediterranean diet, you are doing a lot for your health. In addition to the positive effects on your metabolism and other body functions, you will also lose weight, which also contributes to your health.
But don’t expect to lose a lot of weight quickly! The Mediterranean diet is not a crash diet, but rather a change in diet that will enable you to live a healthy life in the long term. If you also exercise regularly, you will lose your excess weight step by step.
The best thing about the Mediterranean diet is that you don’t have to go hungry. You don’t have to give up anything either. Just follow the recommendations of the food pyramid!