Is a Mediterranean diet right for your client?


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As a provider of senior care services, you may be wondering what foods can help your clients live healthier lives. One particular type of diet that comes to mind may be Mediterranean. You know it’s healthy, but you may not be sure why or how it can help your clients. 

More specifically, a Mediterranean diet is one that’s full of fruits, vegetables, seafood, olive oil, heart grains and more. It’s essential in fighting against heart disease, certain kinds of cancers, diabetes and cognitive decline, so it has a lot to offer aging adults who want to keep their health in tip-top shape. 

Many people choose to consume a Mediterranean diet because of the many heart benefits it provides. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are more than 1.5 million adults who were able to reduce their risk of death from heart disease and cancer by eating a Mediterranean diet. 

The key components of a Mediterranean diet include eating primarily plant-based foods such as:

    • Fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and legumes
    • Limiting red meat intake
    • Consuming fish and poultry at least twice a week
    • Replacing butter with healthy fats like olive oil
    • Drinking red wine in moderation
    • Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods