by Isotopic studies show that people in ancient Syria ate mostly grains, grapes, olives and only a small amount of dairy and meat. If that information sounds familiar, well it is what many scientists recommend today as the “Mediterranean diet”. And it is widely thought to be one of the healthiest eating patterns available to us.
A study of an ancient city
The findings come from the ancient site of Tell Tweini, located in modern-day Syria. Tell Tweini is now recognized as the ancient city of Gibala, which was a major port in the Ugaritic Kingdom. Gibala has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years and has yielded many valuable artefacts, including domestic structures, tombs and agricultural installations.
In the new study, archaeologists analyzed food remains in pots and other objects, trying to see what these people ate. They carried out isotopic studies on these remains but also on animal and human remains. Isotopes are variants of a chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. By measuring these isotopes, researchers can understand the types of food consumed as well as some of their environmental conditions.
The isotopic data show that the agricultural landscape at Tell Tweini was diverse and dynamic, reflecting adaptations to climatic changes and socio-economic changes. Seven plant species were analyzed, including emmer wheat, free-dwelling wheat, olives, grapes, bitter peach, rye grass, and barley. The results indicate that these crops were generally well irrigated, with particular care given to high value crops such as grapes.
During the Early Bronze Age (around 2400 BC), emmer wheat and barley were the main cereals grown under conditions of adequate moisture. By the Middle Bronze Age (2000 BC), free wheat (also called “common wheat” today) began to appear, indicating a change in crop preferences, perhaps, due to changing environmental conditions or agricultural innovations.
These trends continued into the Late Bronze Age, with stable water management practices. Then, in the Iron Age (1200 BC), the isotopic evidence points to increased inputs of manure for wheat and olives. This implies more intensive farming practices, but also an eating style similar to the Mediterranean diet.
Ancient Mediterranean, Modern Mediterranean
Researchers also discovered that humans farmed animals such as cattle and sheep. However, the most significant results came from the analysis of the human bones themselves. These ancient people did not eat much meat, instead focusing on grains and cereals. Olives and grapes were valued, and meat was eaten only occasionally.
Dietary patterns are at the heart of every civilization, and understanding these patterns gives us a newer and more refined insight into the lives of these people.
“Thanks to the interdisciplinary and technical progress of archaeological science, we can not only speculate on the long cultural tradition of the Mediterranean diet through taxonomic and typological determinations, but also expand these results through additional analyses, e.g. . on stable isotopes in humans. , animal and plant remains, thereby contributing to a better understanding of the emergence of cultural traditions anchored in environmental and social dynamics.”
This is not saying “let’s go back to the good old days” – not at all. But he recommends the continuation of healthy eating habits rich in grains, fruits, vegetables, olives, and small amounts of meat, which are associated with numerous health benefits such as reduced risks of chronic diseases.
Contrary to popular belief, ancient civilizations did not eat much meat. In fact, this only became common in the 20th century with the advent of large-scale farms and mass-produced meat. The “Mediterranean Diet,” as the name implies, was popular throughout the Mediterranean countries and in areas with similar climates.
what is the mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet is a nutritional pattern inspired by the traditional dietary habits of people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean, such as Greece, Italy and Spain. It emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Olive oil is the main source of fat, instead of butter and other fats.
The diet includes moderate amounts of fish and poultry, although red meat is consumed sparingly. Dairy products, cheese and yoghurt are mainly eaten, in moderation, and meals are often accompanied by a glass of red wine. This diet is rich in healthy fats, and low in saturated fats, promoting heart health and overall well-being.
Scientific research consistently shows that the Mediterranean diet is associated with numerous health benefits, especially for heart health. Studies have shown that following this diet can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the incidence of stroke and heart attack. In addition, the diet is linked to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
A high intake of antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, especially from olive oil and fish, contributes to these protective effects. In addition, the Mediterranean diet is associated with improved mental health, including a reduced risk of depression and cognitive decline.
The study was published in PLoS ONE.
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