The Mediterranean diet offers a range of benefits, from cardioprotective effects to staving off chronic disease. As a result, researchers are increasingly pointing out that this diet may be the key to a long, healthy life.
The Mediterranean diet — which is typically rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, and allows moderate consumption of fish, dairy, and red wine — contains various compounds that boost athletic performance.
Many of the foods in the Mediterranean diet contain antioxidants and nitrates and have anti-inflammatory and alkalizing properties. So, does this mean that by sticking to this diet, a person will experience improved endurance and exercise performance?
