As the name sugg
ests, a Mediterranean diet is based on the eating habits of the people of Mediterranean countries. This area includes about sixteen countries on three different continents. However, the origins of a Mediterranean diet seem to be centered around Greece and the Greek Islands.
So, what is so special about the eating habits of these people, and what are the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet? Interest in Mediterranean diets began when it was noticed that that people living in the Greek Islands lived longer, and had less coronary disease and cancer than people from other countries. Recent medical research now confirms and backs up these facts.
A Mediterranean diet is made up of fruit, vegetables, grains, poultry and fish, some meat. red wine, and olive oil. Olive oil and Omega-3 oils from fish are known preventatives that help reduce the risk of coronary diseases,hypertension, an diabetes. Most healthy heart diets recommend the use of both olive oil and fish oils because they are very beneficial for the body.
Omega-3 oils enhance the immune system, and a Mediterranean diet consists of more fish and less red meat. Actually, very little red meat is eaten. What is mostly eaten are fruits, vegetables, and grains. Beans, nuts and cereals are also widely used. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and eggs are used in moderation. Red wine is a part of a Mediterranean diet, but also should be used moderately.
Olive oil is a monounsaturated fat and one of the most important aspects of a Mediterranean diet. Hippocrates, an ancient Greek physician,believed that olive oil was an essential part of a persons diet and also had medicinal properties. Olive oil is high in antioxidants which prevent clogged arteries, defends against diseases like cancer, bladder stones, urinary infections, obesity and more.
Unlike trendy diets that promise quick unrealistic results, a Mediterranean diet is based on creating a good healthy lifestyle prompted by well balanced nutritionally eating plan. Following an eating plan based on a Mediterranean will definitely result in a permanent weight loss. Here are some basic tips to use when adapting to a Mediterranean diet.
Cut way down one animal fats. Minimize your consumption of cheese, butter,and yogurt, natural yogurts and feta cheese are good choices. Eat fish and eggs moderately, once a week for fish, and three or four servings of eggs a week. Keep your consumption of red meat down to once a month. Drink at least six glasses of water each day. One added pleasure, one glass of red wine for women, and two glasses for men with each meal is also quite acceptable.
Mediterranean recipes can be quite tasty, which may tempt you to eat more. Care should be taken when it comes to portions. CLICK HERE, for more information and learn how to reap the benefits of a Mediterranean diet.
