mediterranean diet faqs

by Eva B. Alexander
Although the Mediterranean diet is not a strict vegan diet, many of its elements can be incorporated into daily vegetarian and vegan meal plans.

How is the Mediterranean diet different from the typical American diet?
Americans typically consume large amounts of red meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy, while the Mediterranean diet includes very little. The diet also differs from the typical American diet through its dependence on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, beans, breads, cereals, potatoes, and Omega 3-rich foods.

Is it true that the Mediterranean diet played a major role in lowering the heart disease rate in the region?
Major research studies indicate that the Mediterranean diet plays an important role in reducing incidences of cardiovascular disorders. Its success may be attributed to its holistic approach to healthy living. By following the Mediterranean diet, you will learn how to eat healthy and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The Mediterranean diet has a high fat content. Is weight loss possible if people follow this kind of diet?
It is true that the Mediterranean diet is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. However, these are so-called "healthy fats." The typical American diet is rich in saturated fat, which is unhealthy. In general, a person's calorie intake, not the fat content of the diet, determines weight. The Mediterranean diet provides plenty of healthy benefits, but if you do not reduce your caloric intake, then you will not lose weight.

How does exercise, walking, and physical activity enter into the "recipe" for the Mediterranean diet and improved health?
Exercise plays an important role in the Mediterranean diet. A daily one-hour walk is recommended along with other exercises.

What is the difference between a low-carb diet and the Mediterranean diet?
In contrast to low-carb diets, the Mediterranean diet features little protein. Only about 15% of daily calories in the Mediterranean diet come from protein sources.

Can you discuss drinking wine as part of the Mediterranean diet?
If you choose to drink alcohol, consuming moderate amounts of wine daily is recommended as part of the Mediterranean diet. Recommended calorie limits from wine are 5% of daily calorie intake for men and 2.5% of daily calorie intake for women.

Author Eva B. Alexander writes for Mediterranean Diet Blog, her personal hobby Web site devoted to the Mediterranean diet and healthy eating tips for better living.