What Sets The Mediterranean Diet Apart From The Rest?

Photo credit: bigstock.com

Photo credit: bigstock.com

Dos and Don’ts of the Mediterranean Diet?

What you CAN eat on the Mediterranean Diet

  • Seafood – at least twice a week or more: salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout, and herring. Stay away from fried fish and enjoy your seafood grilled instead.
  • Chicken and turkey are allowed.
  • Beans, lentils, and other legumes. Two to four cups per week are suggested to ensure the health of your heart.
  • Bread and pasta that are made of whole grains are allowed. You can have whole grain pasta twice a week.
  • Fresh fruit is encouraged – from 3 to 4 pieces each day. Many people use a piece of fruit as their dessert.
  • Plan on focusing on vegetables that are in season. Salads are always a great choice dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
  • Some dairy products are on the menu including low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
  • You can have fats but instead of butter or margarine reach for olive oil instead. It is a healthier choice and along with high fiber foods helps you to stay full.
  • Nuts can be used in cooking or make a great snack. Walnuts are great for your heart and almonds are an excellent source of protein.
  • Water, coffee, and tea are the beverages of choice. One or two glasses of red wine can be enjoyed each day.

What is NOT allowed on the Mediterranean Diet

  • Red meat. You can have lean red meat on occasion but the focus is on fish and poultry.
  • Processed or junk foods are not allowed at all.
  • Sugar is not allowed and is replaced by more natural alternatives such as honey.
  • Season your food as you cook and do not add extra salt at the table.
  • Ice cream, cookies, cakes, pies, or any other sweet treats.
  • Butter or other forms of saturated fat.

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