Mediterranean food consumption patterns: low environmental impacts and significant health–nutrition benefits

The Mediterranean diet is associated with reduced mortality and lower risk for metabolic chronic diseases.

• Mediterranean dietary patterns comply better with recommended nutrient and micronutrient intakes.
• The Mediterranean diet has a higher share of plant-based dietary energy compared to Northern Europe.
• Mediterranean regions are major centers of plant and crop diversity, with approximately 2300 plant species being consumed.
• The diet is linked to low ecological, carbon, and water footprints due to its emphasis on plant-based foods.
• There is significant evidence supporting the health-nutrition benefits of the Mediterranean diet.

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