A study from the Autonomous University of Madrid has brought to light the significant health benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle, extending beyond just diet, for middle-aged and older adults.
The research team delved into how closely following a Mediterranean lifestyle can reduce the risk of death from cancer, heart disease, and other health conditions in adults.
This study suggests that adopting a Mediterranean lifestyle, tailored to the specificities of non-Mediterranean populations, is both feasible and beneficial for health.
The study analyzed the impact of various elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle, including physical activity, rest, social habits, and conviviality, on 110,799 middle-aged and older adults living in England, Scotland, and Wales.
These participants, part of the UK Biobank, were free from cancer and cardiovascular disease at the start of the study, which spanned from 2009 to 2012, with follow-up until 2021.
Researchers used a 25-point MEDLIFE index to assess adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle. This index included three blocks: Mediterranean food consumption (12 points), Mediterranean dietary habits (7 points), and other lifestyle factors (6 points).
The lifestyle factors examined how often individuals ate meals with family and friends (conviviality), engaged in physical activity with others, socialized regularly, and their sleep patterns, including naps (rest).
After nine years, the findings were clear: higher adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle correlated with a significantly lower risk of death from any cause, including a 29% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 28% lower risk of dying from cancer.
Each component of the MEDLIFE index was associated with reduced risks of cancer and all-cause mortality. Notably, higher scores in the lifestyle activities block also correlated with a reduced risk of heart-related deaths.
The Importance of Community and Social Engagement
This study highlights the vital roles that community involvement and social engagement play in maintaining good health. It aligns with existing research indicating that social isolation can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and mortality.
Broader Health Implications
For those interested in health, this study reinforces the value of the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, including social and community aspects, in promoting overall well-being.
Related research on the brain health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, the impact of plant nutrients in reducing high blood pressure, the blood pressure-lowering effects of olive oil, and antioxidants’ role in reducing dementia risk can provide further insights into healthy living.
Conducted by Mercedes Sotos-Prieto and presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health conference, this study underscores the holistic nature of health, emphasizing diet, social connections, and lifestyle choices as key factors in longevity and quality of life.
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