Mediterranean diet is associated with higher levels of psychological well-being

The study analyzed data from 3,296 people aged 50 to 90 who participated in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Food habits were assessed in 2018-2019, and participants recorded everything they ate and drank on two non-consecutive days using an online platform. Psychological well-being was measured using questionnaires, which were completed up to two times between 2018 and 2020. The study focused on aspects such as a sense of control over life, autonomy, pleasure, self-realization, independence, having a purpose, energy levels, and looking to the future.

An important element of the study was the ability to track the dynamics of emotional well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ELSA sample data showed that the restrictive measures and overall stress of the period had a negative impact on the emotional well-being of the participants. However, those who were more likely to follow a Mediterranean diet experienced less significant declines in their emotional well-being. This suggests that this type of diet may have a certain protective effect in stressful situations.

The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, and olive oil, with moderate consumption of other foods and limited intake of processed meats and sweets. Researchers have noted that the biological mechanisms behind this association are not fully understood, but it is possible that dietary components that influence stress response regulation, inflammation levels, gut microbiome composition, and brain function may play a role.

Based on the data obtained, it is not possible to make a definitive statement about the existence of a direct cause-and-effect relationship between diet and psychological well-being. However, the value of the study lies in its ability to track changes in indicators over time, including during challenging socio-psychological periods. Experts also emphasize the importance of promoting a balanced diet rich in plant-based foods, particularly among older individuals.

On our website, you can learn more about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. For more informative articles, visit the “Knowledge Base” section.