Who is a Mediterranean Diet good for?
Almost anyone can follow the Mediterranean diet as it's low in fat and high in fibre, vitamins and minerals. Because it's a lifestyle rather than a quick fix, it means you're likely to keep the pounds off in the long run too.
Research has shown a Mediterranean diet can help ward off heart disease, cholesterol problems and even Alzheimer's Disease.
Any drawbacks?
Making your own sauces from scratch can be time-consuming. Fruit and veg grown in Mediterranean countries can be expensive over here.
What do you do?
If you're going to follow the Mediterranean way, you need to look at both what you're eating and how you're eating it. The Mediterranean Diet is full of fruit and veg so stop buying processed foods and make your own pasta sauce using tomatoes, onions, garlic and black olives. Snack on fresh fruit such as melon and apricots.
You should ditch the sunflower oil in favour of olive oil and swap margarine for spreads made from olive oil too.
Eat meat in moderation but lots of fish and seafood. Drink the odd glass of red wine and you're just about there.
People in Mediterranean countries also take time over their food. The thought of grabbing a sandwich on the go is looked down on and many businesses actually shut up shop to allow for those two hour lunches. While you may not find that very practical, try to make meals an enjoyable event. Turn the telly off, sit at the table and really enjoy all that fresh food.
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