The History Of The Mediterranean Diet

The History Of The Mediterranean Diet

Almost nobody follows the Mediterranean diet, even those that live in countries bordering the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.


Although this region has a strong history of a very healthy way of life, obesity and other industrial diseases are on the rise. The obesity epidemic is increasing rates of diabetes, fatty liver disease, hypertension, coronary disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.


Just taking a step back in time and following the tenets of this wonderful diet could solve a lot of problems for people.

A TIME-TESTED WAY OF EATING WELL

Previously, it would have been quite common to eat a diet heavy in MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids). Now it is more common to eat highly energy-dense, processed, and unhealthy but cheap foods.


The lack of exercise that is common with today’s lifestyles and the over-consumption of energy (food) sums up the problem of obesity. What is debatable is the actual role of fats in that equation. Some believe no fat is better than any.


We believe that there are actually healthy fats and these are meant to nourish our brains and bodies in a good way, as long as they are consumed in moderation. MUFAs are generally accepted as good fat. Most PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) are as well.

HOW GOOD FATS IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Adipogenesis (formation of fat) depends on insulin, IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor), and glucocorticoids. Fatty acids behave like hormones when certain nuclear receptors are activated. Fatty acids can also regulate adipocyte proliferation and differentiation.


Today’s diets have a high ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 oils (linoleic: linolenic acids). This was not true historically. This change happened, more or less, in the latter half of the 20th century here. Vegetable oils heavy with omega-6 PUFAs became readily available and encouraged by the government and nutritionists.


Linoleic acid will differentiate into pro-inflammatory molecules and exacerbate the problems inherent to obesity. Linolenic acids differentiate into anti-inflammatory or resolvin-type molecules. Thus, it does appear that the type of fat is important.


Omega-3s help maintain nerve membrane and myelin sheath health. Myelin is what surrounds your nerves and supports effective neural signaling.


This ingredient helps keep neural tissues flexible and improves their function. Omega-3’s are an essential nutrient for nervous system health, among other things. 


Olive oil is a MUFA. This is different than a PUFA or animal fat. Traditionally, olive oil is dominant in the so-called Mediterranean diet. Olive oil is a healthy fat and is one of the differentiators of this diet.


Olive oil is thought to contribute to the decrease in SCD (stearoyl-CoA desaturase) activity which is highly associated with obesity. The body can produce its own mono-unsaturated fatty acids for cellular functions with the SCD enzyme; however, if MUFAs are present in the diet, this activity is not needed.


A high intake of olive oil (MUFAs) is the common denominator here. A diet low in PUFAs will also lead to higher internal production of MUFAs. This is the body’s way to account for that deficit.

THE KEY TO A HEALTHY DIET? BALANCE

There are many studies that support each and every viewpoint of course. However, for our purposes, it is most important to get away from total badness. This means that a better diet and better wellness should be accessible and achievable.

Most people cannot or will not become vegan. Most people cannot or will not monitor every bite of food that goes into their system. This means, for someone interested in improving people’s health and wellness, that improvement must be possible and desirable.


The Mediterranean diet can offer that. This is a delicious way to eat and a great way to live.


At Well Theory, we offer a wide variety of products to help you live well. All of our supplements are designed to help fill gaps in your diet. 

Complete Nervous System Support

Dr. Warner’s most unique formulation helps nutrients reach the cells and remove toxins in the body. Provides an effective dose of Omega 3, Algae, Resveratrol, PEA, & more for total nervous system and cellular support.


Helps soothe frayed nerve endings and reduces neuropathic pain while supporting your cell’s optimal aging.*

Dr. Meredith Warner, Orthopedic Surgeon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.


She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.


At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:


  • Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
  • Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
  • Fill the gaps in our daily diets
  • Manage pain associated with inflammation
!