BLOG | Benefits of a Mediterranean Diet
a) Most people say the Mediterranean diet is high in fat. Can people still lose or maintain weight on a Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet is high in fats, but these consist of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat which are in fact essential for maintaining a healthy body. In contrast, the typical British diet is rich in saturated fats, which are detrimental to good health. It should be noted also that fat content in your diet does not determine weight loss. It is your calorie consumption that will generally influence weight loss and optimum weight management. The Mediterranean diet provides lots of healthy benefits but it is still essential to lower your calorie consumption to achieve better results.
b) Is there a major difference between the Mediterranean diet and the British diet?
Britons consume high quantities of red meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy, while the Mediterranean diet includes very little. The diet also differs from the typical British diet through its dependence on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, beans, breads, cereals, and potatoes.
c) Why do people in the Mediterranean have lower heart disease?
The Mediterranean diet plays a crucial role in lowering cases of heart disease. Based on established research, these foods promote a holistic approach which can lead to a healthier body.
d) How do exercise, walking, and physical activity enter into the "recipe" for the Mediterranean diet and health?
Exercise is a vital part of maintaining the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is based on the food choices and lifestyles of the region during the early Sixties and, during that time period, physical activity was an important part of their culture. Daily, hourly walks are encouraged, as are exercises for at least one hour a week that utilize the entire body.
e) Is the Mediterranean diet different from the Low Carb diet?
The Mediterranean diet features little protein, which is in stark contrast to low-carb diets. Only fifteen percent of the calories consumed each day on the Mediterranean diet come from protein.
f) Wine has always been part of the Mediterranean diet. What is the recommended daily amount for wine?
It is highly recommended to consume low to moderate amounts of wine daily. Usually, men should get approximately 5 percent of calories from wine, while women should get 2.5 calories from wine consumption.
g) A word of advice for dieters
The Mediterranean lifestyle is most effective when including a range of root vegetables, foods high in omega-3 acids, and vegetable oils such as flaxseed or canola. Along with fruits, breads, and cereals, these foods may lower your risk for cardiovascular disease.
Labels: mediterranean, mediterranean diet, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, fat, healthy body, holistic, british diet, calorie consumption, weight loss, heart disease, wine, dieters, protein, low carb, cardiovascular disease, omega 3
Posted by: Eva B. Alexander | 18th June 2010
About our guest author...
Eva B. Alexander writes for the Mediterranean Diet blog, her personal hobby website focused on the Mediterranean diet providing healthy eating tips to live better and longer. |
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