The Spanish secret to a long life is not hard to fully understand. According to scientists it is a combination of the Mediterranean diet, a good healthcare system, plenty of walking and closeness to family and friends.
Mediterranean diet
A Mediterranean diet includes fresh fish, chicken, meat, cereals, fruits and leafy vegetables. Olive oil is key to good Spanish cooking.
The Mediterranean diet is rich in Omega-3 and 6 which makes it excellent for health. These beneficial factors reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and blood pressure amongst other diseases.
Locals are proud to live in a foodie paradise.
Days of sunshine
It is proven that sunshine lifts our spirits and boosts our health. Spain has 300 days of sunshine per year according to the World Health Organisation.
The Iberian Peninsula has different climate zones: Atlantic, Continental, Mediterranean and Madrid (having a Continental climate) is not always hot. The winters are cold and the summers warm. However, sunshine is mostly present.
Red wine
A glass of wine with a meal is a Spanish tradition which is though to contribute to longevity. Red wine is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants which help the cardiovascular system.
Spain has fantastic wine-growing regions with high quality standards for vine planting, cultivating and maturation. Wine cultivation dates back to 3000 B.C. An impressive heritage.
Being active
Being active is a healthy habit. Walking is another reason why people live longer in Spain.
People often walk in the city as part of their daily routine such as going to the local cafe or bakery for a morning coffee and pastry, at lunchtime to go to a cafe or restaurant for menu of the day or during the evening to meet friends and family at a bar to share drinks and a chat.
Social life
Humans are by default social creatures. In Spain people like to celebrate. From local festivals to many public holidays, Spanish people love to have a reason to get together with family and friends.
Meeting up with friends and family for a glass of wine or a beer and chatting in the sun or heading out to a bar to dance the evening away is a big factor in the social life of Spain. It is nearly impossible not to be healthy physically and mentally this way.
Even if you don’t have the chance to live in this wonderful country, you can still enjoy a great holiday in Madrid and take that slice of well being back home with you.
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