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Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet Go Beyond Weight Control

KYW's Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - I have talked about the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet on many occasions.

There are many diets and certainly many people who have written books about all sorts of diets, but the Mediterranean Diet is more of a lifestyle than a diet. It is a diet rich in olive oil, nuts, fish, fruit, vegetables and legumes. We know it is extremely valuable as an aid to prevent heart disease and there is good evidence it is helpful in the battle against cancer but the latest report which looked at almost 500 people from 55-80 supports a 2013 study which extols the brain benefits and better cognitive performance.

We are not sure if this will help offset Alzheimer's - this is very tough to prove but we know it helps with memory and it also helps reduce issues with the heart and various forms of cancer.

Believe me – the Mediterranean Diet is a good thing.

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