Thursday, December 31, 2009

Why I Love the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean is a magical place of deep blue seas and lush vegetation. Is it any surprise that it also holds the secrets to longevity and optimal vitality? The traditional sustenance of the ancient Greek island of Crete includes whole grains, dark green vegetables, fruit, nuts, olive oil, fish, and wine in moderation. Meat, if eaten at all, comes from grazing animals, and the eggs are from chickens who roam the island at will, choosing the lushest bits of greenery for their meals. (Contrary to many peoples' wishful thinking, a traditional mediterranean diet does not include all-you-can eat pasta and cream sauce!)

What makes this diet so fascinating is that those who eat this way are far healthier than most of the rest of the world. Only the traditional Japanese diet comes close. Choosing to follow a mediterranean diet will reduce your risk of a heart attack by 35-70%, and cut your cancer risk by 25-60%. People who eat this way also tend to be leaner, are less likely to be depressed, and even have a lower risk for dementia later in life.

As we start a new year and a new decade, this is the perfect way to jump-start your commitment to a smarter, healthier way of life.

No comments:

Post a Comment