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Why the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle is good for your health and wellbeing

By Susan Fisk
from Northern Beaches Nutrition

As a nutritionist I am always being asked what I think the best diet is. Is it Keto or Paleo? Should I intermittent fast? Is red meat a health hazard? Should I avoid carbs?

With so much conflicting information online and in media it is not surprising that people are confused.

For me, negating any underlining issues, the answer is to eat real food in balance, along the lines of a Mediterranean style diet. Plant based with the addition of good quality protein and healthy fat with the odd glass of red wine – it doesn’t get more perfect than that.

A traditional Mediterranean style of eating ensures plenty of fibre to aid digestion and detoxification, plus antioxidants and omega 3 fats to target inflammation, and finally good quality protein to help stabilise blood sugar levels – all key factors in the maintenance of good health. Importantly it is also delicious and sustainable over the long term.

However, there is a crucial component of the Mediterranean diet that many overlook and that is the role the Mediterranean lifestyle plays in supporting the diet, to achieve good health. Way before the term mindful eating had been coined it was everyday practise in the Mediterranean. Taking time to eat and enjoy food, the social interaction of sharing food with friends and family and of course the importance of relaxation (afternoon siesta anyone?). These traditions switched on the parasympathetic nervous system to ensure food was well digested and stress levels were kept in check. The importance of social interaction has been evident on a global scale of late and is paramount in fuelling happiness and enriching mental health, both key players in ensuring overall health and wellbeing.

So, what do I think is the best diet for good health? A Mediterranean diet with a side of Mediterranean lifestyle would be my tip.

More about the author

Susan Fisk
Susan Fisk
– Northern Beaches Nutrition

Sue is an accredited nutritionist who is passionate about food, health and its impact on her client’s wellbeing. With a background in teaching human biology and chemistry she has a balanced approach to nutrition. Sue works to combine food, lifestyle and supplements where required to help you:

  • RESTORE your health,
  • PERFORM at your best, and
  • SUSTAIN these practices throughout your life.

Realising that no two people are the same, Sue develops nutritional plans in conjunction with you that will suit your lifestyle and goals.