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Atlantic diet: better than the Mediterranean?

Concern is growing more and more about a healthy dietand y sustainable financing model. Could the Atlantic diet be the answer to these concerns? What are the benefits of a diet based on local products and on slow cook? Let's see it.

What is eaten in the Atlantic diet?

The Mediterranean diet is famous for giving a great longevity to the inhabitants of the countries where it is eaten. You only need to check the life expectancy of Spain, Italy y Greece. However, each time its competitor resonates with more force: the Atlantic. This appears on the same Iberian Peninsula, only on the other side of the Mediterranean Sea. That is, in Galicia and north of Portugal.

It is based on the consumption of fresh food and proximity. So it not only has Fish and other seafood. The consumption of the latter is carried out about three or four times a week. Also key are the different vegetables cultivated in those places. The inhabitants of these places ingest them in large quantities. In the same way, the cereals, vegetables and potatoes.

fresh seafood/atlantic diet
Food from the sea plays a very important role/Source: Pixabay

It is through them that the followers of the diet obtain complex hydrates. On the other hand, meat is consumed in moderation and giving preference to the lean. Milk and its derivatives also act as a source of proteins y minerals. In addition, this type of diet advocates an occasional and moderate consumption of wine.

The benefits

It should be noted that in the atlantic diet it does not matter only what is eaten but also how. The basics are slow-cooked pot dishes eaten with family and friends. Does the term ring a bell? slow cooking? This may be one of the precedents. The broths, soups and stews They are an excellent way to preserve nutrients. You eat slowly some dishes that stand out for their simplicity and not for the flourishes of the cook. The key is to enjoy a good meal with your people.

Of course, there is always a plea for Quality of raw material. As we mentioned before, healthy fats play an important role. Not only the fish but also the olive oil for dressing. This is one of the reasons that make it such a healthy diet. Keeps at bay bad cholesterol levels. However, if your level is already high, you should moderate your seafood consumption.

It is also rich in fiber, which favors intestinal transit. Furthermore, fatty acids such as omega-3 prevent the degeneration of cognitive functions. Finally, fruits and vegetables constitute an important base against the aging. This is due to his great contribution of Antioxidants.

soup
Soup and potatoes are some of the pillars of the Atlantic diet / Source: Pixabay

Conclusions

We cannot affirm that it is more complete than the Mediterranean. Each has its strengths. Besides, the life expectancy in Galicia it hardly differs from that of other communities. However, we must look at the common points of all the diets considered to be healthier. In the oldest territories on the planet, a moderate meat consumption. Also eat many vegetables this people. Also important are healthy fats like omega-3 and physical activity.

These reasons, together with not abusing simple carbohydrates and avoid the ultra-processed Mark the difference. Let's keep in mind that even if we follow a diet, for example vegetarian, it becomes unhealthier the more ultra-processed we eat. Therefore, the atlantic diet It is a very healthy option although it is not a panacea. The interesting thing is to choose the most nutritious foods and stay with what works from the best diets. How about?

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