MAGGIE O'MEARA
The Mediterranean diet has been historically associated with amazing health and wellness. It’s based on the typical food patterns of the people in areas of Greece and Southern Italy, which has the lowest rates of coronary heart disease, cancers, and various diet-related chronic diseases. People who follow the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle have among the highest adult life expectancy in the world!
In Crete, Greece, where this diet is still very traditionally followed, it is also easy to you see that the people have anti-aging skin - as well as positive moods! It’s all thanks to the food they eat, which is rich in plant foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, beans, herbs, spices, and whole grains). Red meat is only consumed a few times a month while wild-caught fish and poultry are eaten twice a week. Dairy products such as cheese and yogurt are common, as well as up to 4 eggs consumed weekly. Moderate amounts of red wine (for the antioxidants), coffee, and water are main staples. Sweet, fresh fruit is typical for dessert. Having an active lifestyle is also an important component to the health of the people following the Mediterranean diet.
This way of eating is also rich in olive oil as a main source of fat which replaces butter. Olive oil is very good for you because it is a heart-healthy, monounsaturated fat that is high in omega-3s, has antioxidants that lowers inflammation, and lowers your bad cholesterol. When picking out an olive oil at the store, make sure to choose one with a label that says “extra-virgin” and ideally cold-pressed in order to have the least amount of processing as possible!
