Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet is not really a diet. It is a way of eating that copies the general eating habits of Greece, Southern Italy, Spain and the other countries that are in the Mediterranean.

It was first reported in the 1940s that these countries have lower incidences of cardiovascular disease and longer life expectancy than other western countries.

Then in 1999 The Lyon Diet Heart Study looked at the effect of this diet on people who had already had a heart attack. The results were so conclusive that the study was stopped halfway through to enable the results to be published!

There have been other studies that have shown the benefits of Red Wine and Heart Disease, and also Omega 3 and Heart Disease (which is one of the nutrients in oily fish).

Fruits & vegetables

Cereals & pulses

Bread & Potatoes

Nuts & seeds

Olive Oil

Fish

Moderate amount of dairy products

Moderate amounts of poultry

Occasional red meat

Moderate amounts of Red wine

This diet isn’t as restrictive as some medical professionals advise, however it is much lower in saturated fats and much higher in fibre than our normal diet. This will help to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure and can help you to lose weight.

As most meals will be prepared from fresh produce, the Mediterranean Diet has a high nutritional value and gives you a great deal of flexibility in the recipes that you can choose.

The principles are very simple and give you the benefits of a healthy diet, while still being able to enjoy fabulous food.

Many people find it easier, particularly in the first couple of months to follow a program that provides suggested menus so that they know they are on the right track.