What is the Mediterranean Diet? Faq's
What is the Mediterranean diet/lifestyle?
the Mediterranean diet is a nutritional approach, inspired by the traditional eating habits of Mediterranean countries such as Southern Italy, Greece, Portugal and Spain. The diet involves
a high consumption of vegetables, fruit, bread and cereals,
olive oil and moderate intake of fish. Foods are low in saturated fat, high in monounsaturated fat and dietary fiber.
There are many countries within the Mediterranean basis with as many diverse variations of healthy eating. While eating healthily is the main factor associated with the Mediterranean diet, it is by no means the only consideration. People of the Mediterranean tend to have a more active lifestyle, being freer of some of the trappings we readily take for granted, such as a heavy reliance on our cars. In addition, they benefit from more close knit family and social networks - all of which are contributory factors to overall good health.
Are there any food restrictions with the Mediterranean diet?
When you follow the healthy Mediterranian diet, you don't have to miss out on any of the foods you particularly like. If you're a fan of less healthy foods such as burgers, chips or take-a-ways etc., eating them occasionally will do no harm. Just bear in mind that too much is neither good for your health or your waistline.
The Mediterranean diet's view
on potentially fattening foods it recommends eating?
The Mediterranian diet suggest you consume foods such as pasta, bread, rice nuts etc., all of which have traditionally been perceived as fattening. Firstly however, most vegetables and fruit have high fibre and water content. Water and fibre have near zero calories and will give you a feeling of being full, thus suppressing your appetite. Whole grain foods such as bread, pasta, beans etc., also have a very high fibre content than their 'refined' or processed counterparts. While they contain more calories than fruit and vegetables, they are bulky foods that will make you feel satisfied sooner and for longer.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on olive oil and other equally fattening foods?
Olive oil, nuts and avocados are high calorie, but never
the less healthy foods recommended by the Mediterranian diet.
The Mediterranian diet sees these foods as being counter-
balanced by the numerous other low calorie/high fibre foods
in the diet. You get the best of both worlds by eating a diet consisting of flavourful healthy foods with a moderate
amount of calories.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
specific claim to being a healthy way to eat?
The Mediterranian diet relies heavily on plant-based foods,
including vegetables, grains, fruits, legumes and nuts. These foods contain health-giving components that help to ward
off chronic diseases while promoting health. As well as being a healthy source of carbohydrates, the Mediterranian diet provides you with a rich supply of antioxidant foods, essential vitamins and minerals.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on fats?
Unsaturated fats such as olive oil is by far a healthier alternative consumed in the Mediterranean
diet, in place of saturated animal fats - (such as butter, margarine, cream) and other commonly used vegetable oils.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on eating fish?
Oily fish such as sardines is consumed in moderation (2-3 times
weekly) and provide an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids in the Mediterranian diet. vegetarians or
other non-meat or fish eaters, will need to supplement their diets more fully with beans (legumes), peas and lentils
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on physical activity?
While regular exercise is advisable, you don't strictly have to engage in physical exercise to enjoy the benefits of the Mediterranian diet. Regular and moderate exercise however is recommended to help you stay in shape as well as reducing
the risks of heart attack, stroke, diabetes and osteoporosis.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on drinking alcohol?
Alcohol can be consumed regularly in moderation - i.e. one glass
per day for women and up to two glasses for men. Wine can help
boosts good HDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
ease, in terms of being able to follow it?
The flexibility of the Mediterranian diet means you can eat any
foods you like, in moderation. All you need is a good knowledge
of the foods you should eat and some recipes to prepare them.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
view on how it differs from other diets or eating plans?
A Mediterranian diet and lifestyle is not a special diet, nor an eating
plan, nor a fad diet. Rather, it is a combination of healthy eating
habits and lifestyle, that has evolved with Mediterranean people over many Centuries. The Mediterranian diet is neither restricting nor involve you starving yourself, but is a flexible, healthy and an enjoyable way to eat. Click Here! to learn more about the Mediterranean diet.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
specific health benefits?
Many years of research carried out into the Mediterranean and Asian diet and lifestyles show this way of healthy eating and living has many benefits. For example, decreased risk of many chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease,
prostrate and breast cancers, osteoporosis and diabetes.
Further include weight loss, and improved cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
scientific evidence that this way of living is good for health?
There's a wealth of scientific-based research that attest to the health benefits .
what is the Mediterranean diet
in comparison to the Asian diet?
Research shows that both Asian and Mediterranean people share many similarities in eating habits and in lifestyles.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
effectiveness for diabetic people?
The Mediterranean diet consist of eating plenty vegetables and whole grain foods that are rich in fibre, thereby meeting the
demands of an adequate diabetic diet; although you'll need to consult your nutritionist
.
what is the Mediterranean diet's
effectiveness for people with obesity?
The fibre-rich carbohydrate content of the Mediterranian diet is satisfying and help protect against and reduce obesity. The reduced animal fat content of the diet help you to lose weight, while enabling a more balanced intake of filling, yet low calorie foods.
"Lifestyle is the art of discovering ways to live uniquely". (Jim Rohn)
Self-Help Resources
Recommended Books:
The Foods of the Greek Islands
By Aglaia Kremezi
A selection of recipes from
the Greek Islands that have
been passed from generation
to generation. The recipes
which have been adapted for
Western kitchens consist of
ingredients using seasonal
vegetables, grains, beans,
olive oil and fish. The
Foods of the Greek Islands
features many colour photos
as well as giving a good outline
of the Island's history and
its customs
The Greek Vegetarian
By Diane Kochilas
More Than 100 Recipes Inspired
by the Traditional Dishes and
Flavors of Greece (Paperback)
The information on this site is purely of educational value and is not intended to replace your seeking medical advice. You must consult your doctor over all your health concerns.
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