To make the most of the magic of the Mediterranean, it is advisable to follow the lifestyle rather than just the diet. The food, cooking style, and eating habits are a large part of the lifestyle and it does not take too much effort to make it part of your daily practice.
A Sustainable Lifestyle
This healthy dietary pattern depends on a diet that is as unprocessed as possible. Preparing from scratch and eating fresh seasonal produce encourages more sustainable practices. Agriculture and natural resources have a great influence on cuisine. Eating more plant-based foods and lean protein in effect cuts greenhouse gas emissions since the raising and eating of livestock pollutes the air, water, and soil. Mediterranean shoppers do not often buy in bulk as they seek to use only the freshest ingredients. This reduces waste and they are not shy to use leftovers in another meal like day-old bread in fattoush or other leftovers in the popular rice-based dish paella. This reduces food waste considerably.
Healthier Diet
This centuries-old way of eating combines seasonal ingredients made with plant-based flavour agents like olive oil, citrus, herbs, and spices. Whole grains and lean proteins such as omega-3 rich fish and nuts, along with moderate amounts of wine, are consumed. The Mediterranean Lifestyle promotes mindful eating practices and controlled portion sizes. Processed foods, added sugar, and saturated fat have no place in this diet. Fresh or dried fruit is a popular dessert of choice. Red meat is eaten on occasion. Meals are full of colour and variety. This way of eating is also easier on your pocket. Dining out at Mediterranean style restaurants like cafe-luca.co.uk can give you further ideas of what to include in your Mediterranean meal planning.
Health Benefits
The use of fresh herbs and spices reduces the need to add excess salt to the food. Along with the seasonal ingredients, the Mediterranean lifestyle promotes natural activity. Lots of manual labour, stair climbing, and trips to the grocery store by foot is the norm in these Mediterranean regions. Since exercise is part of their routine it is unlikely that many people following this lifestyle will need to find a few hours to force themselves to go to the gym. It is also recommended that you should eat as few meals alone as possible. Preparing food with and for loved ones encourages everyone to eat slowly while they build a balanced social life of connectedness. A joyful attitude and stories told by big personalities with humour and love remind us that laughter is the best medicine.
This diet, being rich in fibre, good fats, antioxidant compounds, and essential vitamins and minerals, decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. There is less plaque build-up in the arteries and this lowers the risks of high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, and diabetes.
Healthy brains and bodies lead to longer lives. The health of people and the planet go hand in hand and it is obvious that the Mediterranean lifestyle is not only more sustainable and healthier, but it also has multiple benefits to our overall health and well-being.
