The 'Mediterranean diet' may help reduce stress and anxiety

According to research, eating more nuts and fruit and consuming less sugary drinks - also known as the 'Mediterranean diet' - can help older people feel less anxious and stressed.

A recent study conducted by the University of the Sunshine Coast (Australia) shows that eating more nuts, fruits, legumes and consuming less sugary drinks - also known as the 'Mediterranean diet Hai' - can help people over 60 feel less anxious and stressed.

'Mediterranean diet' can help reduce depression and anxiety. (Photo: SBS Australia).

Ms. Lisa Allcock - the head of the study - said her team conducted a controlled study in 2022, looking at adherence to a 'Mediterranean-style diet' with symptoms of depression and anxiety. and stress in older people in Australia.

The results show that this diet works very well.

Professor of nutrition and diet at RMIT University in Melbourne, Ms. Catherine Itsiopoulos said that this diet is mainly derived from plants, such as green vegetables, tomatoes, fresh fruits. , and snacks from nuts, grains, dried or fresh fruits, fermented dairy foods, such as yogurt and cheese…

Besides, olive oil is the predominant fat in the diet, and animal foods are eaten less.

The study was conducted with more than 300 Australians aged 60 and over.

The results show that the more vegetables you eat , the less symptoms of depression you have. In particular, it also helps prevent heart disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases. It's good for the brain and beneficial for mental health.

The study took into account other factors associated with poor mental health in healthy adults, such as sleep, physical activity, body fat and cognitive levels.

Ms. Lisa Allcok commented that the 'Mediterranean diet' can also benefit young or middle-aged people.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Villani - nutrition expert and research supervisor - recommends eating less meat, especially red meat, and can replace it with white meat or fish.