It is no surprise that olive oil is the base ingredient to most Mediterranean dishes. The olive tree is native to the Mediterranean region and dates back to the beginning of civilization. Olive trees are prevalent to the Mediterranean Basin due to its hot temperatures and dry soil type. There are hundreds of varieties of olive trees grown all over the world, each with their own special characteristics.
If you enjoy olive oil, red wine, fresh fish and vegetables...then the Mediterranean diet is hands down the right choice for you!
It is a known fact that the Mediterranean diet lowers your overall risk of heart disease. In fact, the FDA has issued a health claim for the consumption of olive oil. See FDA's health claim by clicking here.
Below are some general guidelines to take into consideration when incorporating the Mediterranean diet into your life:
1) Consume plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, etc. while limiting red meats and foods high in saturated fats.
2) Exercise regularly (4-5 times per week)
3) Substitute your animal fats (margarines and butters) with olive oil
4) Eat fish at least 1-2 times per week
5) Drink red wine, in moderation
The Mediterranean diet isn't so much about dieting and watching what you eat but rather choosing healthy fats. Olive oil is the primary source of fat in this diet, particularly "extra virgin" olive oil which is loaded with polyphenols that have antioxidant properties, such as decreasing cancer and coronary heart disease mortality rates. Refined oils have a low polyphenol content, common olive oil shows a medium content and virgin olive oil has the highest amount of polyphenols. Theforefore it's highly recommended to use polyphenol-rich olive oil (extra virgin olive oil) as a main source of fat to achieve the greatest benefits against cardiovascular disease.
Live long, live healthy. Enjoy.
If you enjoy olive oil, red wine, fresh fish and vegetables...then the Mediterranean diet is hands down the right choice for you!
It is a known fact that the Mediterranean diet lowers your overall risk of heart disease. In fact, the FDA has issued a health claim for the consumption of olive oil. See FDA's health claim by clicking here.
Below are some general guidelines to take into consideration when incorporating the Mediterranean diet into your life:
1) Consume plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, etc. while limiting red meats and foods high in saturated fats.
2) Exercise regularly (4-5 times per week)
3) Substitute your animal fats (margarines and butters) with olive oil
4) Eat fish at least 1-2 times per week
5) Drink red wine, in moderation
The Mediterranean diet isn't so much about dieting and watching what you eat but rather choosing healthy fats. Olive oil is the primary source of fat in this diet, particularly "extra virgin" olive oil which is loaded with polyphenols that have antioxidant properties, such as decreasing cancer and coronary heart disease mortality rates. Refined oils have a low polyphenol content, common olive oil shows a medium content and virgin olive oil has the highest amount of polyphenols. Theforefore it's highly recommended to use polyphenol-rich olive oil (extra virgin olive oil) as a main source of fat to achieve the greatest benefits against cardiovascular disease.
Live long, live healthy. Enjoy.
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