It’s National Mediterranean Diet Month

Do you want to eat lots of great, flavorful foods while becoming healthier and helping to prevent serious medical conditions?  Maybe the Mediterranean diet is for you!  This plan is based on the traditional foods that people eat in countries like Italy and Greece. Researchers noted that these people were exceptionally healthy compared to Americans and had a low risk of many diseases. A number of studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet results in weight loss and help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and type 2 diabetes. The Mediterranean lifestyle also involves regular physical activity, sharing meals with other people and enjoying life...who doesn't want to do that??

Want to try it out?  Here’s the basics:

Eat: Vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans, potatoes, whole grains, breads, herbs, spices, fish, seafood and extra virgin olive oil.

Eat in moderation: Poultry, eggs, cheese and yogurt.

Eat only rarely: Red meat.

Don't eat: Sugar-sweetened beverages, added sugars, processed meat, refined grains, refined oils and other highly processed foods.

Whole, single ingredient foods are the key to good health.

For more information about the Mediterranean Diet, go to https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/mediterranean-diet/art-20047801