Sardines Marinades amb verduretes (Photo credit: Spanish Recipes)

Various studies have shown that a healthy Mediterranean diet may contribute to reduced fasting glucose concentrations and lipid levels in those at risk for diabetes, may lower the risk for cardiovascular events and stroke, and improve cognition. A new study involving 10,670 female nurses, published in the November 5 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine, indicates that middle-aged women following a healthy Mediterranean-type diet — with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish, moderate amounts of alcohol, and little red meat — have much greater chance of healthy aging later on.

“In this study, women with healthier dietary patterns at midlife were 40% more likely to survive to age 70 or over free of major chronic diseases and with no impairment in physical function, cognition or mental health,” said lead study author, Cécilia Samieri, PhD, Institut pour la Santé Publique et le Developpement, Université Bordeaux, France. (read more)