Discover the Secrets of the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet has long been revered for its numerous health benefits. For the past year, I’ve been immersed in research on the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, exploring its powerful benefits: supporting heart health, taming inflammation, lowering cancer risk, and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s. The culmination of this journey was an incredible trip to Greece, where I had the privilege of sharing meals and stories with Greece’s vibrant older generations.

The markets in Greece are bustling with life, filled with vibrant people, colorful fruits and veggies, fresh herbs, teas, honey, tahini, so many olives, nuts, and fresh cheeses. The food in Greece is alive, and the people are alive. What struck me most was the quality and abundance of the food, and how it’s woven into everyday life. In Greece, healthy food isn’t a trend—it’s just food. People of all ages and backgrounds enjoy real, whole foods, and it’s not uncommon to see fresh fruits and vegetables at every corner store.

During my trip, I visited Crete, considered the birthplace of the Mediterranean diet, and Ikaria, a Blue Zone island where residents live longer and healthier lives. These experiences deepened my understanding and appreciation of the Mediterranean lifestyle and its benefits. 

The Mediterranean diet is more than just a list of foods—it’s a way of life. The word “diet” is derived from the Greek word “diaita,” which means “way of life.” It’s a mindset that focuses on quality, whole, plant-rich foods and a generous helping of olive oil. Food is a way to connect with others, and it’s at the heart of Mediterranean culture.

A large body of observational and experimental evidence suggests that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, Type II diabetes, autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.

Perhaps most notably, adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been linked to a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (death from any cause), with some studies indicating a decrease in mortality rates by 30 percent or more. 

My Mediterranean Masterclass is a virtual course designed to help you effortlessly weave Mediterranean habits into your daily life. You’ll get access to:

• Immersive videos from Greece, showcasing authentic Mediterranean life
• Self-paced clinic videos, during which I’ll share practical tools and tips
• 40 Mediterranean-inspired recipes
• A 70-page guidebook packed with science-backed tips
• A live “Cook with Me” session, during which you can cook along with me and connect with our community

This isn’t a quick fix or a fad diet—it’s a sustainable approach to healthy living that can last you a lifetime. By embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle, you can boost both your lifespan (how long you live) and healthspan (how well you live), enjoying a longer, healthier life with fewer chronic diseases.

Join me for the Mediterranean Masterclass and discover the timeless wisdom of the Mediterranean diet.

To sign up or learn more, scan the QR code or visit lakesidenaturalmedicine.teachable.com.

Dr. Sarah Axtell is a naturopathic doctor passionate about using food as medicine with her patients at Lakeside Natural Medicine. She helps people facing many health conditions, such as digestive disorders, autoimmune disorders, weight loss resistance, food sensitivities and hormone imbalances.