The Mediterranean Diet Review

The Mediterranean diet is not a specific weight loss program.

It is the typical eating habits traditionally followed by the people in the Mediterranean area.

The low rates of diseases and high life expectancy rates are credited to their traditional diet and active and agricultural lifestyle.

Traditional Eating Habits

Sixteen countries border the sea, and the diets can vary between the countries and regions. However, they have a very common ground in how they eat.

Their diet consist of a variety of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, seafood, small amounts of poultry, and limited red meat and dairy products. The fat source is mostly olive oil.

Eating fish a few times per week is a benefit to increase the amount of fatty acids (Omega-3) you need. Eating red meat sparingly increases your health.

They consume cheese and yogurt in moderation. Red wine is favored in moderate amounts, normally consumed with meals.

The medical field believe the Mediterranean Diet is healthier than the American and North European diet because they eat more fruits, grains, legumes, vegetables, olive oil and nuts.

Olive Oil Health Benefits

Olive oil, a monounsaturated fat, provides approximately 50 percent of the fat calories. This is a healthy fat and doesn't increase the LDL cholesterol.

The people of these countries have high regards for olive oil and attibute much of their good health to it.

Hippocrates first introduced olive oil's health benefits.

The uses of olive oil were many. It was used to heal abrasions, soothe burns and dry effects from the sun and water, and to sustain muscle and skin elasticity.

It was used for beauty and health externally and internally.

This weight loss plan has been proven healthy through studies that have been conducted.

Olive oil can assist in lowering LDL cholesterol, it also has antioxidants that prevent clogging of the arteries and certain diseases such as cancer.

Packed with Vitamins A, B1 and B2, K, E, D, C and iron, it's valuable to the digestive system.

What Makes The Mediterrean Diet different?

It's a lifestyle. Besides the traditional way of eating, they are physically active daily.

They also have an optimistic view of life. Their family ties are strong and bonding. They make time each day to relax the body and mind.

The Weight Loss Program

Although there are many attempts at replicating this traditional style of living, it originally was not a weight loss program.

The "New" Mediterranean Diet is based on the traditional lifestyle and carries through with delicious cuisine.

You will eat less processed foods and more yogurt, beans, nuts, legumes, vegetables, fruits, rice, pasta, potatos and whole grains.

Exercise is promoted and it's easier to stick with this type of program. Rather than a diet, the New Mediterranean Diet is a lifestyle change. Your chances of maintaining your weight are better because the foods you eat are more satisfying.

Red meat, sweets, poultry and eggs are consumed less often.

Red wine (in moderation), is a part of the traditional lifestyle this weight loss plan is based on.

The Mediterannean Diet Cookbook by Nancy Harmon Jones is packed with excellent recipes. Do try the Panzanella! It is excellent.

"Achieving A Healthy Lifestyle For Women's Health and Fitness"