The Mediterranean Diet

A Key To Healthy Eating

The Mediterranean diet is the natural way of life for people living in the countries bordering the Mediterranean, which of course includes parts of France.

It is now a well-known and researched fact that the Mediterranean diet is full of health giving properties to enable us to live a long and healthy life – if we eat this way on a regular basis!

It really is no big secret and neither is it a fancy diet that has suddenly become fashionable.

No, indeed, the people from the Mediterranean areas just live a long and healthy life because they use the very best of fresh foods each day, promoting good health and well being.

So, which foods do they eat each day to achieve this method of healthy living?

The answer is quite simple!

They eat simple everyday fresh fruits and vegetables, beans and legumes, plenty of fresh bread (not the type we get pre-packaged in the supermarket!) and fresh pasta.

They also eat plenty of cous cous, polenta and rice, nuts, and whole grains.

The fats they eat are mostly of olive oil (virgin olive oil), as well as lots of fish, shell fish, lean meats, poultry, cheeses and yoghurts.

They also make good use of fresh herbs in their every day cooking which makes for tastier meals and cuts down on the use of salt in the food.

Wine is also taken seriously and in moderation. It is healthy when taken in this way – about one 5oz glass a day for a woman and two for a man. Of course if you cannot drink for medical reasons, then it is sensible not to do so. Otherwise, it is believed to be good for you.

To get the very best from the Mediterranean diet, it should be eaten every day in all your meals.

This may seem difficult at first especially if you want to change your eating habits. However, it can be done gradually by planning some of your meals and buying foods that you will need for your cupboard. This way you will not waste what you already have and you can change your lifestyle slowly but surely.

A good way to do this is to plan a menu for the week ahead and only buy what you need. Don't be tempted to buy other things in the supermarket that look delicious but which you don't need. This way you will be able to keep to your healthy foods, still have the most fantastic, tasty meals and save yourself a fortune on grocery bills.