Traditional Mediterranean Diet: Enjoy Eating and Healthy Living

While there is no one particular diet that makes up the traditional Mediterranean diet, there are a few similarities in the diets of the countries that are in the region. A Mediterranean diet is characterized by the following:

Heavy reliance on fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as legumes and whole grains.
Liberal use of olive oil, which is a "healthy" monounsaturated fat.
Limited use of dairy products and meat. Rare use of red meat.
Moderate intake of wine.

With the types of food described above, it's easy to see why traditional Mediterranean Olive oil; much used in traditional mediterranean diets diets would be healthy for anyone. Any diet with a high amount of vegetables and whole grains will be beneficial. And olive oil has long been recognized as a source of good fat, because it does not increase the level of cholesterol in the blood like other fats do.

Another thing that is different about the Mediterranean diet, however, is the whole approach to eating and mealtime. Traditionally, families and friends take time over a meal, savoring the food and enjoying each other's company. In our world of quick microwave meals gulped down in seconds, it might be hard to imagine sitting at the table for a meal of several hours. But the Mediterranean philosophy of food encourages lingering, and doesn't allow for eating and running.

Perhaps beyond the healthful benefits of the food choices, simply taking time to enjoy a meal with friends or family can do our bodies a world of good.

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