Many are calling the Atlantic Diet one of the world’s best diets. Often regarded by experts as the successor to the Mediterranean diet, it shares similarities with the latter, long celebrated for its health benefits.
Recent studies highlight the Atlantic Diet’s potential health advantages, particularly for heart health, which is crucial for preventing cardiovascular disease—one of the leading global causes of death. Adopting the Atlantic Diet has also been linked to lower all-cause mortality, a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, and improved mental health, particularly in reducing depression.
But what does this diet entail? Which foods are recommended, and which should be limited?
What Is the Atlantic Diet?
The Atlantic Diet draws inspiration from the eating habits of northern Spanish and Portuguese populations. Known as the Southern European Atlantic Diet (SEAD), it is predominantly plant-based yet still includes animal products, such as fish and meat, in weekly menus.
What to Eat on the Diet
The Atlantic Diet emphasizes minimal consumption of processed foods and promotes a natural, plant-heavy approach. Vegetables, greens, and fruits play a significant role in the diet, as they are essential sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Combined with fiber, these nutrients contribute to overall heart and body health. Meals feature plenty of apples, pears, berries, leafy greens, and even starchy vegetables like potatoes.
Whole grains, especially intact grains, and legumes, like beans, provide slow-releasing energy and plenty of satiating fiber. For protein, the Atlantic Diet prioritizes high-quality sources, particularly fish (especially cod, rich in healthy fats and lean protein), seafood, moderate amounts of dairy, and eggs.
Olive oil is the preferred dressing, similar to the Mediterranean diet, alongside healthy fats from nuts and seeds. Unlike the Mediterranean diet, however, the Atlantic Diet includes more seafood and shellfish while consuming eggs, dairy, poultry, and red and pork meat in moderation.
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