SBK Guest Post: Eva on the Mediterranean Diet

I am happy to announce that today's post was actually written by one of my readers!  As May is Mediterranean month (fun little face), one of my readers, Eva from Chicago, (also a fellow blogger) contacted me last week to contribute her thoughts on the Mediterranean Diet.  I thought that this would be timely information to share, seeing as swimsuit season is just around the corner!

Although my blog isn't meant to specifically focus on diet or health food per se (see my post on pop tarts if you need a reminder) I certainly do base my recipes on variety and cooking with whats fresh, healthy and in season.  I also think it is important to share views on food from other readers to keep things interesting and fresh.   That being said, if you are interested in being a guest contributer, please feel free to contact me at KNBarszcz@gmail.com

Happy Weekend!

Give Me 5 Minutes and I’ll Give You the Mediterranean Diet

a) Can people still enjoy weight loss and effective weight management even if Mediterranean diet is high in fat? 

While the Mediterranean diet is high in fat, it is high in the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated healthy fats, in contrast to diets rich in saturated fat. It is not the fat content that will determine weight loss on the Mediterranean diet. People who wish to eat the Mediterranean diet may experience other health benefits but still not lose weight if they do not lower their caloric intake.

b) Is there a major difference between Mediterranean diet and American diet?

Americans consume high numbers of red meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy, while the Mediterranean includes very little. The diet also differs from the typical American diet through its dependence on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, beans, breads, cereals, and potatoes.

c) Is it true that Mediterranean diet can lower the risk of heart disease? 

Diet is a major factor in lowering the incidences of heart disease in the Mediterranean region.  This has been proven by research and studies conducted by health and diet experts. Another big factor is the holistic approach of the Mediterranean diet.  This diet does not only focus on foods but on maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well. 

d) Is exercise still required if one is following a Mediterranean diet?

Exercise is always essential no matter what type of diet you follow.  The best thing about the Mediterranean diet is that it encourages daily regular exercises as part of the holistic approach to achieve a healthy lifestyle.  When this type of diet was introduced in the sixties, exercise and physical activities were already part of the culture of the Mediterranean people.  For your minimum exercise needs, you have to take a daily one-hour walk and weekly full body exercise.

e) Is Mediterranean diet different from Low Carb diet?

Mediterranean diet is substantially different from Low Carb diet.  For one thing, the Mediterranean program has lower protein component.  You will only get 15 percent calories from the protein of Mediterranean diet. 

f)  People noticed that wine is an important part of Mediterranean diet. What is the recommended daily wine consumption?

Men should generally get 5 percent calories from wine while women should consume 2.5 percent calories.  As a rule, always drink wine in low to moderate amounts daily to enjoy best results. 

g) Final words

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.

About the Author - Eva Alexander writes for http://mediterraneandiet.org.uk/, her personal hobby blog focused on tips to eat healthy on the Mediterranean way.