If you're not convinced of the benefits of adopting the Mediterranean diet, here's yet another study that might sway you.

This study looked at 780 firefighters ages 18 and older from the Midwest during the past five years. What makes this study a bit different is the researchers, from Harvard University, didn't change the diets of the participants — they only tracked what they were already eating. (Via WFLD)

According to​ HealthDay News, researchers looked at firefighters because they are reportedly known to have a high rate of obesity and risk for heart disease. (Via Wikimedia Commons / Rennett Stowe)

"Those who adhered most closely to the diet 'tended not to drink soft drinks or other sugary beverages; had less consumption of fast food and more fruits and vegetables; ate fewer sweets; and were less likely to eat fried food.'"

"Experts are finding a Mediterranean diet rich in fish, nuts, fruits, veggies, it lowers your cardiovascular risk. Young people who followed the diet closely had less risk of heart disease, and 43 percent were less likely to gain weight than those who did not follow the diet." (Via WZVN)

Researchers say, "If people want to pick just a couple things to change, avoiding fast food and sugary drinks would be key targets."

A study out of Harvard University backs up the claim that Meditterian diets help increase overall health and wellbeing.

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