If you were to ask where is the healthiest place on earth, where would you choose? Japan, with the Blue Zone of Okinawa and a healthy life expectancy of over 100 years! Mediterranean? There are many places in the world that can be pointed out, but the Nordic region of Northern Europe is often overlooked. But it shouldn’t be—All Nordic countries surpass world life expectancy.
The average life expectancy in America is 76 years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and PreventionIn the Nordic countries (including Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Åland and the Faroe Islands) all countries except Greenland Consistent life expectancy over the 80-year thresholdThere are several reasons why people in Nordic countries can be expected to live longer than people in the United States. For example, they are known for giving more people access to quality healthcare. But one of the surest reasons is their diet. This has led to the growing popularity of Nordic food, which is modeled after the eating habits of people in this part of the world.
never heard of it? Read on to find out what it is and how it can benefit your health.
Related: 30 habits that the happiest people in the world swear by
What is the Nordic Diet?
Simply put, the Nordic diet is a way of eating that is modeled after the way people in the Nordic countries eat.Registered dietician and recipe developer Julie Andrews, MS, RDN, FAND, This includes meals high in the following foods:
- Vegetables, including root vegetables such as turnips, beets, and carrots
- fruits, especially berries
- Seafood, especially fatty fish Salmontuna, sardines, mackerel
- fermented food
- dairy products containing skyr
- beans
- whole grain
“These foods are rich in fiber and omega-3. probiotics—All these studies show that they can benefit your overall health and reduce your risk of chronic disease,” says Andrews. Anyone can benefit from including it in their diet.”
She noted that the Nordic diet is notable for: is not This includes processed foods high in sugar, processed meats, sugary drinks, and alcohol. “study show Regular consumption of these foods may increase your risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
If you think the Nordic diet is similar, mediterranean diet, you’re right! “The Nordic diet is very similar to the Mediterranean diet plan, which is a very healthy way to eat,” says registered dietitian Jenny Beth Croplin, RD, Say. However, there is an important difference. The Nordic diet includes many root vegetables and dairy-based foods, including skyle, which is similar to yogurt but thicker and creamier.
Following the Nordic diet has many health benefits which are explained below.
Related: 110 Foods You Can Eat on a Mediterranean Diet
What are the health benefits of following the Nordic Diet?
1. Rich in foods that support gut health
Both nutritionists say one of the reasons the Nordic diet is so healthy is because it’s rich in foods that support the body. gut healthFermented foods such as pickled vegetables, skyl, kefir, yogurt, and sourdough bread are all commonly eaten in Nordic countries, and Andrews says they contain good bacteria that support gut health. Contains probiotics. According to scientific research A diet high in fermented foods has been associated with improved immunity and reduced disease-causing inflammation.
In addition to fermented foods, the fruits, whole grains, legumes, and root vegetables that are part of the Nordic diet also contain fiber, a nutrient most people in the United States don’t get enough of. good for the intestines Also Supports Gut Health“Dietary fiber is important for balancing blood sugar levels, improving digestion, lowering cholesterol and making you feel full,” says Croplin.
Related: Eat Your Way to a Healthier Gut—Here’s What You Need to Know About Gut Health and Diet
2. Good for the heart
Dietary fiber is known to support gut health, but scientific studies show Also helps with cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. Croplin says seafood in the Nordic diet is also good for heart health. That’s because it’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, she says. Direct Benefits for Cardiovascular Health.
3. Seafood in the Nordic diet supports brain health
Eating seafood regularly isn’t just good for your heart. Croplin says it’s good for brain health, too. Thanks to Omega 3. Research Shows It may even play a role in preserving memory and preventing dementia.Eating foods containing omega-3s regularly may also help protect against depression.
Another reason why the Nordic diet is beneficial for heart health, says Andrews, is that berries are rich in antioxidants, which help prevent inflammation. Including chronic diseases that affect the brain.
4. Root vegetables in the Nordic diet are rich in beneficial nutrients
In the United States, root vegetables can get a bad reputation because of their carbohydrate content, but both nutritionists say there are many benefits to keeping foods such as potatoes. sweet potato, turnips, carrots and beets into your diet. “Root vegetables are actually very healthy and offer a range of nutritional and health benefits. Root vegetables are more starchy, but they are complex carbohydrates that contain fiber,” explains Croplin.
For example, Croplin says many root vegetables contain B vitamins, Vitamin A When Vitamin CImmune Health, Vision Health, Wounds Healing“Root vegetables also provide phytochemicals that protect the body from free radicals in the environment,” she elaborates.
Andrews added: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. ’” She says each root vegetable has unique nutritional properties depending on its color. “Sweet potatoes, for example, are rich in vitamin A and potassium,” she explains.
5. Following the Nordic diet naturally eliminates foods that are harmful to your health
Sugary foods and drinks, overly processed foods, and alcohol are all not part of the Nordic diet and are consumed sparingly, if at all. The Nordic diet isn’t as restrictive as other diet plans, so you won’t miss out on these types of foods. I guess. There are many other delicious foods!
There’s no right way to eat for everyone, but if your goal is to eat healthier in 2023, the Nordic diet is one style to consider. It may add years to your life!
next, Find out how 3 minutes of exercise a day can help extend your life.
