Because of their emphasis on complete foods, lean meats, and plant-based elements, the Mediterranean and Atlantic diets have been linked to a variety of health advantages. However, the two are not identical.
Mediterranean Diet:
- The Mediterranean diet is characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil.
- Moderate intake of fish, poultry, and dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, is also typical.
- Red meat and sweets are consumed in smaller quantities compared to other dietary patterns.
- Regular physical activity and moderate consumption of red wine (in some versions) are often part of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Atlantic Diet:
- The Atlantic diet is similar to the Mediterranean diet in many ways but emphasizes foods commonly found in regions along the Atlantic coast.
- It includes abundant seafood, particularly cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Along with seafood, the Atlantic diet features a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
- Red meat is also limited, and there’s a focus on using olive oil as the primary fat source.
Health Benefits
Both diets have been thoroughly researched and related to a variety of health advantages, including a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and several malignancies. They are also linked to enhanced weight control and cognitive performance.
Which One Is Healthier?
It is difficult to proclaim one diet to be indisputably healthier than the other because both offer distinct benefits and are founded on similar ideas of balanced nutrition and whole foods. The Mediterranean diet has been thoroughly examined, and there is a bigger body of data to support its health advantages. However, the Atlantic diet, which emphasizes seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may provide distinct benefits for heart health and cognitive function.
