A way of eating that has achieved great popularity in recent years is the Mediterranean diet. Prevalent in many parts of the world, it is a diet based on the eating practices of people who live in Mediterranean countries. While countless people have heard about the Mediterranean diet, they may not be knowledgeable of the specifics.
In order to become more familiar with the Mediterranean diet, consider the following facts regarding the components of this eating regimen. Armed with elementary facts about the Mediterranean diet, you will be in a position to determine if this way of eating is appropriate for your lifestyle. Of course, these are simply talking points about the diet. Before embarking on any sort of food regimen, including the Mediterranean diet, consult with your physician to make sure that it is appropriate for your medical status.
Healthy Foods
The key elements of the Mediterranean diet are fruits and vegetables, whole grains, olive oil and seafood. Wine is consumed in moderation. Because of this combination of foods, the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest diets on the planet.
Little or No Red Meat
Meat and other animal products are eaten in small amounts on the Mediterranean diet. In fact, whenever meat is included in the diet, it is typically poultry or fish. Red meat is not a staple of the Mediterranean diet and is not frequently eaten by its adherents. The people who live in countries around the Mediterranean Sea rarely eat red meat.
Low-Fat Dairy Products
In addition, most dairy products are used only sparingly within the Mediterranean diet. For example, if milk is included in a meal or used for the preparation of food, it is generally low-fat or skim milk.
Few Eggs Eaten
Eggs are not often included in Mediterranean meals. Actually, a heavy egg eater is someone who eats four or more eggs per week.
Omega-3
With the moderate consumption of fish and other seafood, the Mediterranean diet delivers a tremendous source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Research has demonstrated that a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids prevents heart disease, stroke and even certain cancers.
Olive Oil and Beneficial Fats
Some people believe that the Mediterranean diet is too high in fat. In truth, however, the Mediterranean diet is only high in the healthy types of fat. While upwards of 35 percent to 40 percent of the calories do come from fat, the Mediterranean diet is remarkably low in saturated fat. It is saturated fat that has negative consequences on a person’s health. The diet relies heavily on olive oil and this is the primary reason why the diet is higher in fat than one might expect. Olive oil is proven to increase the level of HDL cholesterol, also known as “good cholesterol.”
Fiber and Antioxidants
The Mediterranean diet is exceedingly high in fiber and antioxidants – two elements that have been proven to be helpful in preventing heart disease and some types of cancer.