Dr. Thomas Barber, an Associate Clinical Professor and lead of Obesity Services at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, is calling for a cultural shift in Western diets.
He urges a move away from processed, sugar-laden foods to a Mediterranean Diet (MD) rich in plant-based foods and healthy fats like olive oil.
Barber cites not just the health benefits but also the environmental impact of the MD, which aligns closely with sustainability targets set by the EAT-Lancet Commission.
Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet is well-known for reducing the risk of heart disease, promoting cognitive function, and maintaining a healthy weight. Barber argues that the secret lies in its ‘healthy fats,’ primarily olive oil.
Cultural and Environmental Factors
Though highly effective, the MD is more easily adopted in Mediterranean countries due to cultural integration and climate.
Non-Mediterranean populations face hurdles in fully embracing this diet, often due to limited availability of key components, particularly in winter months.
However, Barber also mentions the environmental friendliness of the MD, including low water usage and CO2 emissions.
Overcoming Barriers
Dr. Barber believes that adopting the MD is more than just about food availability; it’s about a cultural shift.
People must overcome the palatability challenge of ingesting large amounts of fruits, vegetables, and olive oil daily.
Recommendations
Wider Adoption: Given the overwhelming evidence supporting its health benefits, Barber believes it’s high time to adopt the Mediterranean Diet.
Seasonal Planning: For non-Mediterranean regions, planning meals around seasonal availability can help to make the diet more accessible.
Cultural Adaptation: Incorporating the principles of the MD into daily life, even if not fully adopting the lifestyle, can still result in significant health benefits.
Community Involvement: Barber calls for a collective ‘to-do’ list to encourage and inspire each other to cook from raw ingredients and rediscover the joy of healthy eating.
Concluding Thoughts
According to Barber, embracing the Mediterranean Diet not only promises better health but also aligns with global sustainability goals.
Overcoming the cultural and palatability barriers may be challenging, but the long-term benefits for health and the environment make it a journey worth embarking upon.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about how Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and the best time to take vitamins to prevent heart disease.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about plant nutrients that could help reduce high blood pressure, and these antioxidants could help reduce dementia risk.
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