HEALTH NOW

The number one diet?

The Mediterranean diet, typically high in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, seeds, nuts and olive oil, was named the healthiest diet of 2019, but it might be even better for us than we thought. Researchers have found that it may boost physical performance, with participants managing to complete a 5km run on a treadmill 6% faster after following the Mediterranean diet for four days. Although the study was small, with only 11 participants, the findings are promising. Another study has found that one-fifth of preventable deaths worldwide – about 11 million – are linked to poor diets. According to the researchers, what eat is more important than what we do eat, as diets low in fresh vegetables, nuts and seeds are the most detrimental. So stock up on fresh produce, cut down on red meats and feel the benefits!