People can improve their health-related quality of life by following the Mediterranean diet, research has highlighted.
Health-related quality of life is a measure of how a person’s health affects their ability to live a fulfilling life. It is a broad concept that includes physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing.
Chronic conditions can massively impact an individual’s health-related quality of life, such as type 2 diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.
A diet predominantly made up of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts, olive oil and legumes is associated with many health benefits and a better health-related quality of life.
- Mediterranean diet reduces mortality risk among women
- Cognitive function in older adults enhanced by Mediterranean diet
- Mediterranean diet can help improve sleep quality
Otherwise known as the Mediterranean diet, this eating regime can help people with type 2 diabetes improve their sensitivity to insulin blood sugar regulation.
Prior research has revealed that the Mediterranean diet can prevent people from developing cardiovascular disease, metabolic conditions and breast and colorectal cancers.
In addition, it has been proved that the Mediterranean diet is beneficial for people living with mood disorders, musculoskeletal conditions and neurodegenerative diseases.
Individuals who have adopted the Mediterranean diet are less at risk of developing depression or anxiety, particularly among older adults. This diet is high in antioxidants and fibre.
Additionally, those following the Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop psoriasis compared to adults not on the diet.
People with asthma and inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis also benefit from this diet.
The study stated: “Improving health-related quality of life is essential to increase the wellbeing of ageing people while reducing their healthcare costs.
“Ageing is associated with changes such as increasing frailty, reduced metabolic efficiency, lower bone density and muscle mass loss.”
- Global increase in number of people with type 1 diabetes living longer
- New international guidance for early-stage type 1 diabetes monitoring and support
- Scientists develop experimental type 1 diabetes drug which shields insulin-making cells from immune system attack
The research added: “Thus, older adults who are physically resilient are better equipped to recover from health challenges and manage chronic diseases.
“A healthy diet can help ageing individuals reduce their disease burden and maintain their independence.”
The review concluded: “The Mediterranean diet has the potential to prevent chronic disease while improving cognitive functions such as decision-making and verbal memory.
“When combined with regular physical activity, it offers a powerful strategy for enhancing overall quality of life.”
Read the recent systematic review article in the journal Nutrients.
