- antioxidants - powerful scavengers of free radicals; free radicals are chemical substances that travel around in the body and cause damage to body cells
- carotenoids – found in red, orange, and yellow plant leaves, fruits, and flowers; they may protect the body against damage from light and oxygen
- monounsaturated fats - may delay or reduce development of cancers of the breast, colon, and skin
- phytochemicals - substances produced in plants to protect them against viruses, bacteria, and fungi
These are thought to promote the longer lives and lower incidence of chronic diseases found in
this region.
[More information about mediterranean diet (PDF)]
