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Atlantic diet: the Mediterranean diet that prioritizes fish
Healthy diets
This eating model encourages the consumption of fish, vegetables and unprocessed cereals
If the Iberian Peninsula has a rich Mediterranean diet, its north has another equally beneficial diet but adapted to its environment: the Atlantic diet.
This model of diet, native to the area of Galicia and northern Portugal, has, of course, many elements similar to its ‘cousin’, the Mediterranean diet. Even so, stands out for the consumption of fish and vegetables typical of the area. Dr. Felipe Casanueva, vice president of the Atlantic Diet Foundation, comments that although the concept of the Atlantic diet dates back some 20 years, it has been 10 years ago that it has begun to be extended and studied.
«It has been observed that the Galicia area has a
longevity greater than other areas of Spain“Says the doctor, who argues that it may be due to a genetic difference, but since the climatic difference is relative, one of the explanations is that the difference lies in the diet.
Another way to cook
Another of the characteristics highlighted by the doctor of the Atlantic diet is the way in which food is prepared and eaten afterwards. Comment that the style of eating and cooking, a leisurely way, is the basis of this diet. “They take pot dishes, and meals that are made in the company of friends and family and are long.” Also, this diet advocates leaving complications when preparing meals. “Simplicity must be sought in the preparation of food, to maintain the quality of raw materials and, therefore, the nutritional value,” they explain at the foundation.
Although this eating model differs little from the Mediterranean diet, there are differences. In the Atlantic diet, the base will always be seasonal foods, local, fresh and minimally processed. Vegetables, vegetables and fruits should be prioritized, such as cereals (whole grain bread), potatoes, chestnuts, nuts and legumes.
It is also important to take fresh, frozen, or canned seafood; milk and dairy products, especially cheeses; pork, beef, game and poultry; and olive oil for seasoning and cooking. The doctor even drops that you can drink wine, yes, always in moderate quantities.
Finally, Dr. Casanueva points out the importance of it is a diet with a minimal carbon footprint. “A group of researchers from the University of Santiago has analyzed various diets and their carbon footprint: the Atlantic is the one with the smallest footprint,” he explains. Being a diet that advocates the consumption of seasonal and proximity foods, it is not only healthy, but also environmentally friendly.