The Mediterranean diet is a local and traditional diet from the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea in Southern Europe and Northern Africa. Keeping to this diet may help you stay healthy, control weight, and avoid certain diseases. There are many different ideas about what constitutes this traditional eating pattern. The guidelines below consist of a few elements of traditional Mediterranean cuisine that have been confirmed by research as being common to most people living in these regions. Incorporating some basic aspects of the Mediterranean lifestyle into your own life might not only make you healthier but also better able to deal with stress through its effect on your brain chemistry and behavior. It may even help you live longer! In any case, it's worth a try. It emphasizes the consumption of seasonal, locally produced fruits and vegetables. The remainder of the diet is made up of healthy fats, whole grains, beans, and fish. Food groups like dairy and red meat are still common, but not to the degree that the Western Diet does. Red meat is only eaten once or twice a month, and dairy is limited to a few small portions a week. Many people who follow this diet often exercise for around 2 hours a week. Easy ways to exercise include gardening, cleaning the house, working in the garage, and even running and playing with your children. This book covers ? Breakfast recipes ? Appetizers and snacks ? Main dish ? Vegetables and side dishes ? Soup and stew recipes And much more A diet must be long-lasting. It should be something that requires a lot of thinking and eventually becomes a habit. The Mediterranean diet does not place limits on food and does not emphasize calorie counting or cutting. Many people who follow the Mediterranean diet recommendations eat without worrying about consuming too many calories.weiterlesen