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The well-known advantages of the Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its positive impacts on heart health and cognitive function, have now been further affirmed to benefit mental well-being, as indicated by a recent study from the University of South Australia.

Conducted in collaboration with the University of the Sunshine Coast, the research published in the journal Nutrients focused on 294 older Australians aged 60 and above, examining the impact of the Mediterranean diet on mental health. The findings showcased a notable reduction in anxiety and stress symptoms, regardless of age, gender, sleep patterns, or BMI.

Key components of the Mediterranean diet, including fruits, nuts, legumes, and limited intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (less than 250 mL per day), were identified as particularly effective in mitigating anxiety and stress levels.

With anxiety affecting over 301 million people globally and impacting 1 in 4 individuals in Australia during their lifetime, the significance of lifestyle interventions such as dietary modifications cannot be overstated.

Dr. Evangeline Mantzioris, a leading dietitian and researcher at UniSA, underscores the potential of the Mediterranean diet in enhancing mental health and overall quality of life, especially in the context of an aging population.

"Globally, we're facing an unprecedented aging population, yet despite this longevity, many people continue to struggle with their health and well-being," Dr. Mantzioris explained, Neuroscience News reported.

"Lifestyle behaviors, including diet quality, are gaining more attention as modifiable risk factors for poor mental health, with the Mediterranean diet endorsed for reducing chronic disease risk and supporting healthy aging.

Highlighting the accessibility of the Mediterranean diet as a practical lifestyle change, Dr. Mantzioris noted its efficacy in reducing stress and anxiety symptoms across diverse demographic groups.

"In this study we showed that when older people adhered to a Mediterranean diet, their symptoms of stress and anxiety declined-and that this occurred regardless of their age, gender, BMI or how much sleep and exercise they were getting," she added.

"It's a big tick for the Mediterranean diet-through a relatively easy lifestyle change, people can markedly improve their stress and anxiety levels-who wouldn't want to give it a go."

The Mediterranean diet advocates for a rich intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and olive oil, while promoting moderate consumption of fish and seafood. Red meats and processed foods are advised sparingly, with an emphasis on incorporating dairy and lean proteins in moderation.