A person’s life longevity is largely determined by the decisions they make along the way. Choosing to get the recommended amount of exercise, drinking sensibly, abstaining from smoking and choosing the right foods to nourish the body will all determine how long you will live for. According to numerous studies and research, following a Mediterranean diet will help you to live longer.

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A study found that people aged 65 or older and who consumed foods including fish, nuts and fresh vegetables – staples of the Mediterranean diet, have a 25 percent lower risk of death.

In fact, the numerous evidences proving how effective the diet is on life longevity has it touted as one of the best diets to follow.

Best of all, the Mediterranean diet is relatively easy to follow with few restrictions on food choices.

With fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, legumes, potatoes, whole grains, breads, spices, fish, seafood, poultry, eggs, cheese and extra virgin olive oil – one is spoiled for choice and safe in the knowledge they are eating their way to a longer life.

There are numerous studies which have been associated with a longer life and the Mediterranean diet.

A comprehensive literature review conducted by Italian researchers on an overall population of over 4,000,000 showed that following the diet could help to greatly reduce the risk of death.

The EPIC Elderly Study which included information of over 74,000 Europeans showed that adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with lower mortality cases.

In another study with the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, the Mediterranean diet and life expectancy was analysed.

The study noted: “Large observational prospective epidemiological studies with adequate control of confounding and two large randomised trials support the benefits of the Mediterranean dietary pattern to increase life expectancy, reduce the risk of major chronic disease and improve quality of life and well-being.

“Recently, 19 new reports from large prospective studies showed –with nearly perfect consistency– strong benefits of the Mediterranean diet to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, total mortality, heart failure and disability.”

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What the expert said

Marialaura Bonaccio, an epidemiologist at the Mediterranean Neurological Institute IRCCS Neuromed said: “Because we are facing an ageing process all over  the world, in particular in Europe, it is particularly important to see which kinds of tools we  have today to face this ageing process.

“We all know that the Mediterranean diet is good for health but there are few studies focusing on the elderly.

“Previous studies have suggested benefits linked to both heart disease and cancer.”

The NHS added: “A Mediterranean diet incorporates the traditional healthy living habits of people from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including France, Greece, Italy and Spain.

“The diet varies by country and region, so it has a range of definitions.

“But in general, its high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, beans and unsaturated fats.

“It usually includes a low intake of meat and dairy foods.

“The Mediterranean diet has been linked with good health, including a healthier heart.

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