The Mediterranean Diet

The diet news of today is that after a five year study, it has been concluded that The Mediterranean Diet is thee best all around diet for human beings.  One that will provided health, wealth and a long happy life.

According to this website: The Mediterranean Diet is a way of eating based on the traditional foods (and drinks) of the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean Diet is not a diet, as in “go on a diet,” even though it is a great way to lose weight or improve your health. Rather, it is a lifestyle – including foods, activities, meals with friends and family, and wine in moderation with meals.

I’m happy to say that since my family originated from the Mediterranean Sea (more towards the Adriatic to be more precise) we have been following the guidelines of a Mediterranean Diet since birth. We have been enjoying dishes from Italy, France, Greece, the Middle East and now, since coming to America, we have also enjoyed Asian stir-frys and Mexican burritos. The latter using only turkey meat and olive oil, thus adhering to Mediterranean traditions.

Who knew? That all along we were doing the right thing.  My dad lived till 92 and my grandmother lived till 98.

Since this report came out, I have increased our consumption of non-fat, plain Greek yogurt (combined with fresh fruit) and have upped our intake of daily fruits and vegetables.  We always had a fresh salad each and every day.  Now, I’ve included a fresh, cooked vegetable also. DH and I enjoy a smallish glass of red wine each and every night along with our dinner. The Mediterranean Diet recommends 7 smallish glasses per week!

It’s easy to follow the Mediterranean Diet.  Just

look at this illustration and eat according to the pyramid guidelines.

You’ll quickly notice that the first part of the diet has nothing to do with food.  It has to do with family, friends and relationships.  Having good interaction with others, while you share a meal, helps your lifestyle and your health.

Many Americans eat alone.  Tonight for dinner, turn off the TV.  Put away electronic games.  Turn off the phones. Set a nice table instead. Prepare an easy meal.  Pour yourself a glass of wine.  Sit down, look into each others eyes, talk, laugh, share and have a good dining experience.

Happy eating.

And may you have a long and healthy life!

Enjoy.

About these ads