Mediterranean Diet: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Science—A Sustainable Way Towards Better Health, Wellness, Longevity, and Personalized Nutrition

Anka Trajkovska Petkoska (), Violeta Ognenoska and Anita Trajkovska-Broach
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Anka Trajkovska Petkoska: Faculty of Technology and Technical Sciences, University St. Kliment Ohridski-Bitola, Dimitar Vlahov 57, 1400 Veles, North Macedonia
Violeta Ognenoska: Logistics Department, Ministry of Defense of Republic of North Macedonia, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia
Anita Trajkovska-Broach: MD Inspired, LLC, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 9, 1-19

Abstract: The Mediterranean Diet (MD), although not always called by this name, has emerged over centuries as a diet influenced by diverse civilizations in the Mediterranean region, who blended local produce, traditions, and rituals with new ingredients and customs introduced through trade, migrations, or occupations. Historically characterized mainly by plant-based foods, olive oil, fish, moderate meat consumption, and moderate wine consumption, MD was also shaped by the holistic health principles advocated by figures like Hippocrates, Plato and Galen. Modern investigations, including Ancel Keys’ Seven Countries Study , confirmed its protective role against cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses, while UNESCO’s designation of the MD as an Intangible Cultural Heritage highlights its broader cultural significance. Today, although MD faces challenges from globalization and shifts in modern lifestyles, the advances in personalized and AI-driven nutrition, as well as specific public health initiatives offer opportunities to preserve its core tenets of balance, sustainability, and communal eating for future generations along with many scientifically proven benefits of this diet and the associated lifestyle.

Keywords: Mediterranean Diet; lifestyle; Seven Countries Study; plant-based diet; personalized nutrition (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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