What is Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is based upon the food consumption of those who surround the Mediterranean sea. It's considered a low fat, carbohydrate-based high energy diet. Bread and pasta are a major part of this diet. Studies have shown that people who live in the region have a low rate of chronic disease and illness.

The Mediterranean diet focuses on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, pasta, rice and seeds. Olive oil also accompanies most of these meals as it is a main ingredient in food preparation. Dairy products are consumed in low to moderate amounts in the form of cheese and yogurt. Animal proteins are included, but are consumed in lesser amounts compared to plant proteins.

This diet is basically balanced nutrition as recommended by the Food Guide Pyramid. The low rates of heart disease in the countries surrounding the Mediterranean can also be attributed to the active and agricultural lifestyle these peoples lead.

The bottom line is that this is real world healthy diet and exercise.

You can find this diet in popular magazines, in books at your local bookstore, as well as the new online program offered by eDiets.com