More Red Meat and Good Health? This Is Where the Atlantic Diet Fits In

Inspired by traditional Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, the Atlantic Diet reduces the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

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For years, the Mediterranean diet has hogged the healthy-eating spotlight, emphasizing fresh produce, fish, and olive oil.

However, new research is spotlighting a lesser-known but potentially equally beneficial diet with a surprise allowance for more red meat: the Atlantic diet. Emerging research suggests it can also reduce your risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Atlantic Versus Mediterranean Diet

While similar to the often-recommended DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets, the Atlantic diet specifically draws inspiration from the traditional foods and preparations of the Iberian region. Also called the Southern European Atlantic Diet, it originates from the traditional cuisines of northern Portugal and northwestern Spain.