The Nordic diet is a new entry in the roster of famous and healthy diets. Much like the Mediterranean diet, which has been praised for the past decades for its healthy benefits on the heart and weight management, the Nordic diet also prioritizes vegetables, fats, and fish. As its name implies, it originates from Scandinavian cuisine. Here's all you should know:
What is the Nordic diet?
The Nordic diet is rich in fruits, veggies, fats, and whole grains. When it comes to proteins, it prioritizes fatty fish and lean proteins, primarily those that are native to the Nordic region, like Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and the like.
Some of the most popular Nordic fruits include tart ones like blueberries and strawberries, while prioritizing low-fat dairy sources like yogurt, and fish like mackerel, sardines, salmon, and herring. A big part of this diet is the fact that many people from the region buy local and seasonal foods, having a better impact on the environment.
Foods like eggs and poultry are consumed in moderation, while red and processed meats are eaten rarely. The consumption of alcohol is also limited, providing an even greater boost in health benefits.
Just how healthy is it?
Early research suggests the Nordic diet has plenty of health benefits, primarily for the heart. This is due to its main components being rich in fiber and healthy fats, which are all connected to healthy heart functioning.
The consumption of omega-3 fatty acids from fish has also been linked with a lower risk of a heart attack or stroke.
What's the easiest way to follow it?
While some of the ingredients may sound a little foreign, the Nordic diet is relatively easy to follow if you focus on a few key things: prioritize whole or minimally processed foods with high fiber content, like fruits and veggies, and eat sources of protein like fatty fish, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy.
It might also be helpful to do some research on the types of foods that are grown locally, minimizing the impact on the environment and ensuring you consume food that's fresh and minimally processed.