Food for Thought: The Mediterranean Diet

Much as it sounds, the Mediterranean Diet adopts the eating habits of the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.  A simple breakdown of the diet is as follows:

· Fruits & Vegetables

· Whole grains

· Nuts

· Olive oil (not butter)

· Flavor food w/ herbs & spices (not salt)

· Eat more fish & seafood—avoid red meat

· Choose low-fat dairy

· Red wine (in moderation) or purple grape juice

Research has shown that adopting the Mediterranean Diet has several health benefits including “reduced risk of overall and cardiovascular mortality, a reduced incidence of cancer and cancer mortality, and a reduced incidence of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.” (MayoClinic)  An added benefit of the Mediterranean Diet is a renewed balance and energy that often leads to an increase in physical activity.