Researchers in the United States have found that a Mediterranean diet can play a significant role in dealing with stress compared to a diet high in animal protein and saturated fat. Stress is not just a serious problem for Americans, many of whom have been taking antidepressants since school. All people are subject to it. Nervous overexertion has a negative impact on behavior, personal relationships, and productivity. Even worse, chronic stress is associated with higher mortality rates, as it can lead to serious health risks, including diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, and heart disease.
Researchers from Wake Forest School of Medicine have shown that the Mediterranean diet shifts the balance towards the parasympathetic nervous system, which is good for health. The study was based on measuring the level of cortisol, a stress hormone that acts as the body's signaling system in emergency situations. Stress is difficult to control, but nutrition is still easier. Less nervous are people who eat a lot of vegetables and fruits, get regular monounsaturated fats of olive oil. People on the Mediterranean diet copes better with stress, and also recover more easily after prolonged stressful situations compared to those who eat like Americans-a lot of animal proteins and saturated fats, salt and sugar.