So what do you think of when you hear the term mediterranean diet? Is it a wonderful grilled fish you had at a little restaurant by the port? Was it picking up food from the local market to have as a picnic? Was it being delighted how tasty the vegetarian meal was in the restaurant in that little village? Of course it is all these things but so much more because the traditional mediterranean diet is what is eaten at every meal every day, not just on those special occasions. It has been shown to be something of a miracle diet reducing the risk of heart disease, Type II diabetes, cancer, depression, dementia, preventing osteoporosis and improving muscle mass. It is balanced and straight forward to follow, allowing people to eat a wide variety of food in moderation. It’s also been shown to increase life expectancy, why not try it?
Featuring simple plant based cooking which focusses on vegetables legumes and whole grains, it also uses natural fats from fish, nuts, seeds and avocados. Eggs, small amounts of full fat dairy, and virgin olive oil are included, while processed food, refined sugar and red meat are kept to a minimum. Eating natural, plant based foods reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, reducing tissue damage and disease, whilst balancing healthy gut bacteria and benefitting overall health.
But the mediterranean diet is much more than just about food. It emphasises the value of eating with friends and family and enjoying socialising over your meals. And it positively encourages the occasional indulgence, such as a little dark chocolate and a glass of red wine every now and then!