At Oldways, we have long been enamored with Mediterranean cuisine. In celebration of International Mediterranean Diet Month this May and in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid!were sharing a few reasons why this eating pattern and lifestyle continues to come highly recommended by chefs and doctors alike.
To and out the three good reasons to love the Mediterranean Diet, check out our brand new infographic below (and make sure to share with your friends)! Here at Oldways, we’re excited to continue to spread the word about this healthy and nutritious lifestyle. Join us in sharing health through heritage!
Good for People
Hardly a week goes by without researchers documenting another health benefit associated with the Mediterranean Diet. Longer lives, lower risks of heart disease in diabetes, and healthier brains and bodies during aging are just a few of the health benefits ascribed to this time-tested eating pattern.
Better yet, the foods and flavors make the Mediterranean Diet a craveable cuisine, full of color and variety. People in the Mediterranean didn’t live healthfully into their 80s, 90s, and 100s by subsisting on celery sticks and protein shakes; their meals had a heavy dose of flavor and pleasure. It’s no wonder that US News & World Report ranked the Mediterranean Diet as the #1 easiest diet to follow, among several other accolades.
Good for the Planet
The Mediterranean Diet traces its roots back to a time when people were more connected with the food producing process. Because 24-hour convenience stores, meal deliveries, and fast food weren’t an option, people were under more pressure to take care of their land and seas, and the pattern of the Mediterranean Diet reflects this reality.
Today, scientists are increasingly aware that the health of people and the health of the planet go hand-in-hand. In fact, studies indicate that switching to a Mediterranean Diet can cut greenhouse gas emissions, as well as land, water, and energy use, compared to our current highly processed, meat-heavy way of eating.
Good for the Pocketbook
The journey toward healthy eating doesn’t have to cost a fortune. To see if traditional ways of getting healthy meals on the table stand up to modern food economics, researchers calculated the cost of a 7-day meal plan for an economical version of the USDA MyPlate guidelines, and compared it to that of a plant-based diet with olive oil.
They found that choosing a plant-based diet, instead of the budget MyPlate diet, could save $746.46 per person per year, and provide vastly more servings of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. At the time, a largely vegetarian diet accented with local fish, unrefined grains, and seasonal vegetables may have been considered humble peasant food, but today we appreciate the kitchen tips and tricks from the generations of thrifty home cooks that came before us.
Join the Make Every Day Mediterranean Club Facebook group for additional information and support.
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