Essay On Mediterranean Diet

There are many different styles of a Mediterranean diet, but they all have the same foundation. The Mediterranean diet originated from countries of Europe - Greece, Italy and Crete. The diet is composed of olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, fish, chicken, and wine; red meat and dairy is barely consumed. . “In the late 50’s, Ancel Keys established the largely plant-based Mediterranean diet as the original prototype for current dietary guidelines in the United States” (Nestle, 1995, p. 1313S). Ancel Key’s career began as a biologist, than he transitioned into a professor at the University of Minnesota. Through studies and research, he found the benefiting factors of a Mediterranean diet. Dr. Keys was recruited by the government for a wide range of projects, such as K Rations, the effects of starvation and how to best re-feed starving people. (Brody, 2004) After successfully helping the governments and conducting “The Seven Counties” study, Dr. Keys discovered the Mediterranean style of eating and living habits are extremely beneficial. Benefits include prevention of coronary artery heart disease, help avoid metabolic syndrome, and increase

Olive oil is the key fat source of this diet regiment. The diet incorporates complex carbohydrates such as, green vegetables, dairy, whole grains such as oats, legumes, and nuts into the dietary intake. Complex carbohydrates are a great source of fiber and can be high in vitamins and minerals because they are often found in whole plant foods. The replacement of salt with spices and herbs is also a major component because this reduces the amount of sodium intake. The diet limits red meat consumption to a few times a month and substitutes red meat with fish and poultry. Fish and poultry are consumed at least twice a week. Dieters who follow the Mediterranean intake have the option to consume red wine but in moderate