What Is A Mediterranean Diet? Tips And Methods To Follow!
There are lots of diets these days catering to almost all types of people in the world. With a new one coming almost every week, it is hard to keep track. Still, there are a few which are truly trusted by their followers. One such diet is the Mediterranean Diet. But what is it? And most importantly, how is it followed?
Well, you do not have to worry! We are going to answer all your questions about this diet and then some. Just keep on reading!
What is a Mediterranean Diet?
As the name suggests, the diet relates to the traditional living habits of the people living on the borders of the Mediterranean Sea, that is, the countries of Italy, Greece, Spain, & France.
The diet has a variety of definitions as per the different regions and the countries, but it basically has the same foods that one should opt for and the same foods that one shouldn’t.
What Does A Mediterranean Diet Consist Of?
A Mediterranean Diet may have different definitions pertaining to the different countries, but it has a general idea that remains the same.
The diet should consist of high amounts of vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, grains, beans, nuts, fish, and unsaturated fats such as olive oil.
What Foods Are Prohibited While on A Mediterranean Diet?
The diet does not necessarily prohibit many things, but it is highly recommended to lower the meat and dairy food intake to a significant amount.
Benefits Of Mediterranean Diet In Health Wise
There have been tons of research by several experts proving that the Mediterranean Diet is a good one to follow to make you healthy. The diet has been known to be good for people who are prone to heart diseases and even for those who are not. This is because the pattern of this diet dictates that there would be a reduction in cardiovascular diseases. This is then combined with healthy aging, an increased lifespan, and for some, it may even lead to weight loss. This diet has the ability to lower the chances of heart disease.
A Guide to A Healthy Life with The Mediterranean Diet
In case you didn’t know already, the Mediterranean Diet is similar to all the healthy ones recommended by the governments as well as various health organizations. You can take cues from the tips below to learn how you can follow the Mediterranean Diet easily:
- Have 5 Portions
It is highly recommended to follow this diet in the healthiest way possible to have 5 portions of fruits and veggies each day. This is the least amount. You can also go beyond this amount each day if you wish.
- Choose Whole Grain
While having or wanting to have foods like rice, bread, or pasta, make sure that you choose the whole grain versions of them. Starchy foods can provide more nutrients and value to your diet this way.
- Find Alternatives to Dairy
The alternatives to dairy such as soya drinks have equal or more amount of nutrients in them. These are combined with a lower fat ratio as well as a lower sugar ratio.
- Hydrate Yourself
Hydrating yourself is the one tip you’ll find in almost every diet. Even in the Mediterranean Diet, having at least 8 glasses of water each day can help in flushing out the toxins and help you feel replenished.
- Eat Smartly
Surely, not all of us can get rid of every snack or food that we like. We all have a favorite or favorites that we cannot imagine our lives without. So, what is the smart way? You can go for portion control. Eat what you love but in small quantities and try to have those foods or drinks less often.
Conclusion
As you may have noticed, the Mediterranean Diet is not as hard as other diets and can in fact be followed quite easily with just a few tweaks in one’s regular diet. We can conclude that this one is one of the healthiest diets out there that surely does not starve you. This also makes sure that your get benefits like weight loss without keeping you away from a healthy and balanced diet.
