Mediterranean Diet Has Smorgasbord Of Benefits

KYW Medical Report Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Mediterranean Diet is modeled after those who live on the Mediterranean who are known for living long, healthy lives.

The diet is one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and fish. It's already known to protect against conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, obesity and even some forms of cancer. But over the past year we have seen several studies where we have found that people who follow the diet have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

I seem to be talking about this diet more and more but the news continues to be positive so it is worth discussing more and more.

Once again, let me stress it, the Mediterranean diet is one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil and fish. It's very important. Those types of foods are excellent to include in the diet, and to use again and again.