a) Most people say the Mediterranean diet is high in fat. Can people still lose or maintain weight on a Mediterranean diet?
Mediterranean diet is high in fats. But these consist of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These are healthy fats needed by your body. In contrast, the typical American diet is rich in saturated fats. It should be noted also that fat content in your diet does not determine weight loss. It is your calorie consumption that will generally influence weight loss and optimum weight management. Mediterranean diet provides lots of healthy benefits but it is still essential to lower your calorie consumption to achieve better results.
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) Why people in the Mediterranean have lower heart disease?
Mediterranean diet plays a crucial role in lowering cases of heart diseases. Based on established research, this diet promotes a holistic approach so that you can have a healthier body.
d) How does exercise, walking, and physical activity enter into the "recipe" for the Mediterranean diet and health?
Exercise is a vital part of maintaining the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is based on the food choices and lifestyles of the region during the early Sixties and during that time period, physical activity was an important part of their culture. Daily hourly walks are encouraged, as are exercises for at least one hour a week that utilize the entire body.
e) Is Mediterranean diet different from Low Carb diet?
The Mediterranean diet features little protein, in contrast to low-carb diets. Only fifteen percent of the calories consumed each day on the Mediterranean diet come from protein.
f) Wine has always been part of the Mediterranean diet. What is the recommended daily amount for wine?
It is highly recommended to consume low to moderate amounts of wine daily. Usually, men should get approximately 5 percent calories from wine while women should get 2.5 calories from wine consumption.
g) A word of advice for dieters
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 B. Alexander writes for the http://mediterraneandiet.org.uk mediterranean diet blog, her personal hobby website focused Mediterranean diet healthy eating tips to live better and longer.