We have all heard of the Mediterranean diet which is supported by scientific data showing that people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean have lower levels of cardiovascular disease, obesity and some types of cancer. The diet is rich in large amounts of vegetables, nuts, bread and fish, making the Mediterranean diet very low in saturated fats, which typically come from meat. Because of its great health benefits, the Mediterranean diet has become popular all over the world, including the UK and Scotland as part of their big battle of the bulge.
In fact, these Northern countries have invested much time and energy researching the benefits of this diet for their citizens. But interestingly, they may do better looking a bit closer to home: recent findings from scientists in northern Europe suggest that foods from Scandinavian countries can provide a more convenient alternative for those not living in warmer climates. For example, research from the University of Agder, Norway, has shown that native berries from northern Europe such as blueberries, cowberries and cloudberries contain as much unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids as fish per unit of energy and that these berries are rich in antioxidants, key for preventing heart disease, stroke and cancer. And look out olive oil: rapeseed oil has been found to be a good alternative containing more omega-3 fatty acids and being a good source of vitamin E.
In addition, cabbage and other brassica species such a kale and Brussels sprouts, have been found by scientists to contain some of the highest levels of antioxidants of any vegetable and are a good source of vitamin K, important for proper blood coagulation. Traditional Nordic diets are also been high in fish, as in the Mediterranean, with particular preference for salmon, trout, cod and herring and scientist also see a place for the game meat from animals such as elk and reindeer, and birds such as grouse, which are leaner than farm-reared livestock.