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Fishing boat in the Aegean sea
The mediterranean diet has attracted a lot of attention and research over the last few decades because of its benefits associated with hypertension, high cholesterol, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, et.
What the mediterranean diet consists of, as seen in the country of Greece, is vegetables, legumes, grains, fruits, fish, the use of olive oil over other oils, dairy products from sheep and goat, a low intake of red meat, and a moderate amount of alcohol, usually wine, generally taken with meals.
A day's meals may look like this:
Breakfast: yogurt with fresh fruit, walnuts and a little honey.
Lunch: fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumber, feta, onions, olive oil and fresh bread, some chicken or fish.
Dinner: salad as above, horta (boiled greens), and a main dish. It is customary to eat out frequently and a typical menu will be comprised of different kinds of salads and vegetables, as appetizers or meze, as well as a main dish with meat (lamb, pork) or fish and seafood.
In addition, the following features enhance the benefits of this diet:
- Fasting is a part of the mediterranean culture whether it is for a day or a few weeks. This means that the body takes a break from its daily functions which rejuvenates the internal organs, primarily those dealing with digestion, assimilation and elimination.
- Fresh and dried herbs are used extensively in the kitchen; the majority of these herbs have medicinal properties and thus enhance overall health.
- The increased consumption of fish provides the supply of omega 3 essential fatty acids, so important for brain function, cardiovascular health, hormone production, etc.
- The way people eat their food which is primarily in good company, affects the overall mood and way the food is digested and assimilated. Eating is a social activity and is enjoyed with leisure.
- Food, for the most part, is fresh and not processed. People are used in buying fresh fruits and vegetables at the farmers market, meat at the butcher's, fish at the fish market, fresh bread at the bakery, etc.
- The environment in the mediterranean countries tends to be cleaner and there is more physical activity throughout the day.
- Lastly, there is a great social support system and an overall attitude of enjoying life.
In conclusion, it is important to look at the mediterranean diet and what makes it so beneficial within a greater social context and overall attitude towards life. If this diet is to be followed it will be of great benefit to also consider adopting a healthy lifestyle.
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