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Frequently Asked Questions

What foods aren't allowed in a Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet prohibits certain food groups including processed foods and added sugar. Certain foods are not recommended to be eaten in order to retain the health-benefits associated with this eating pattern. These foods can be eaten occasionally, but they can have a negative impact on the health benefits of Mediterranean-style eating.

On a Mediterranean diet, whole-grain breads and starches like white bread, sugary grains, and other highly processed baked goods are prohibited. These items are rapidly absorbed as sugars into your system and can cause weight increase over time. They also lack vitamins and minerals as compared to whole grains like quinoa and millet.

Other sugars fall under this category too. Limit your intake of sweetened beverages, such as soda, tea with added sugars, or juices. These won't help you manage weight, or provide healthy nutrient profiles.

When it comes to meats, red meats and processed meats should not be included in any version of a Mediterranean-style meal plan. Red meats and processed meats possess high levels of saturated fat, which increases cholesterol levels, raising the risk for heart disease and other metabolic syndrome-related problems that could lead to more serious illnesses. Nitrates found in processed lunchmeat can raise cancer risks because they are linked to cell damage responses and may be harmful to cells. Dairy products should be avoided as many cheeses have high levels of saturated fats.

According to nutrition experts, fish should not be eaten more than three times per week.

Can the Mediterranean Diet even be vegetarian?

Yes, the Mediterranean Diet can be adapted to be vegetarian. For this diet, vegetarians can choose to eat a variety of plant-based proteins, such as fish and poultry. The Mediterranean Diet offers many plant-based protein options, including legumes as well as nuts and seeds. Healthy fats such as olive oils, olives, or avocados can help to replace the protein source. Additionally, incorporating alternative dairy sources such as tofu or soy yogurt is also an option to gain vitamins and minerals while following a vegetarian lifestyle within this diet. Another option is to make hummus from mashed beans, add nuts and seeds to bowls and salads, have hummus with vegetables as snacks, or replace ice cream with frozen bananas for dessert.

Is the Mediterranean diet expensive to follow?

The Mediterranean diet is usually affordable, and includes easily accessible and affordable ingredients. Many staple foods are found in local grocery stores or farmers' markets. Shopping for organic products, premium proteins or specialty items like extra virgin olive oil, can prove more costly. You need to plan your meals according to your budget. Also, you can save money by using leftovers from other meals and bulk-freezing foods like fish and grain.

Is it possible to use extra virgin olive oil in place of regular olive oil?

Extra virgin olive olive oil can be substituted for regular olive olive oil in the Mediterranean diet. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is better for its nutritional benefits and higher quality, but regular olive oil is still an option due to its mild flavor. Regular olive oil can be used for daily meals such as stir-frying and roasting vegetables. This olive oil has a lower price than EVOO. However, some believe that it is better suited for higher heat applications like deep frying. It is important to remember that it doesn't contain as many nutrients or positive compounds than EVOO. Therefore, you should try to compensate for these benefits with other food items.

Is it OK to consume milk in the Mediterranean diet?

Yes, milk is permitted on the Mediterranean diet. Low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheese are important components of the Mediterranean diet. They provide calcium and other essential nutrients. Also, milk is nutritious and should be included in moderation in your daily drink routine. It can also be used to make oatmeal and smoothies, if desired. If possible, look for organic milk to support sustainable farming. Add milk to your breakfast dishes such as smoothie bowls and avocado toast to ensure you get essential vitamins, minerals, and a balanced start every day.

Statistics

• One small study suggested that swapping one-half of your serving of a high-glycemic starch (like rice) with lentils helps lower the glycemic response by 20 percent. (everydayhealth.com)
• In one study, the healthiest eaters at age 50 had a nearly 90% lower risk of dementia than those with the least healthy diets. (heart.org)
• Other components in tomatoes may help reduce the risk of blood clots, thereby protecting against cardiovascular disease, according to a March 2019 review in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. (everydayhealth.com)
• Benefits of Replacing foods high in saturated fats (like butter) with plant sources high in monounsaturated fatty acids, like olive oil, may help lower the risk of heart disease by 19 percent, according to research. (everydayhealth.com)

External Links

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• The Mediterranean Diet - From an Environment-Driven Culture of Food to an Emerging Medical Prescription (PMC)


• Definition of Mediterranean Diet. A Literature Review. PMC

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• American Heart Association


• What is the Mediterranean Diet and how does it work? American Heart Association

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• Traditional Med Diet | Oldways


• Mediterranean Diet | Oldways

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• Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Using a Mediterranean Diet - NEJM

How To

What can the Mediterranean Diet do to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke?

The Mediterranean diet is an eating pattern that encompasses healthy fats, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. The Mediterranean diet has many health benefits. It is associated with improved blood lipids and glucose control, lower risk of certain types and cancers, better heart health, improved cognitive function, weight management, and better overall health. Research also suggests that this dietary pattern may reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

It is possible to incorporate Mediterranean-inspired foods into your daily diet by swapping high-calorie snacks like chips for nutrient-dense vegetable appetizers or other traditional greens or beans dishes. Additionally, learning how to increase variety in your diet by adding spices or different sources derived from nuts, fruits, and vegetables can help enhance satiety after meals. Additionally, moderate amounts should be added to your daily intake of milk, yogurt, and cheese for additional nutrition. Olive oil should replace traditional oils as the primary cooking medium. Red wine may occasionally be enjoyed to complete the Mediterranean experience.

Combining this with regular vigorous exercise at a moderate intensity could lead to even greater gains in short-term and long-term health benefits. This includes the prevention of chronic diseases and better body composition. The Mediterranean diet encourages eating well and maintains a healthy nutritional balance. This can help to reduce one's chances of suffering from stroke or heart disease.

Resources:

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[TAG76] Here is a delicious and nutritionally-balanced Mediterranean Diet meal plan for an entire week. If you are new to the diet, we think this meal plan will be a

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[TAG82] BROCCOLI NUTRITION: Broccoli is rich in many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and potassium. It also has more protein than many other

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[TAG112] Healthline ranked the Mediterranean Diet number 1 for the following reasons: Numerous studies associate the Mediterranean diet with a reduced risk of heart

[TAG113] Psychology Today reports: Eating more green, leafy vegetables and less red meat were associated with improved cognitive functioning in a recent study of older

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