The last two days I’ve been up in Boston for the 15^th
Anniversary Mediterranean Diet Conference.
A variety of presenters mentioned that people have heard of the Mediterranean style of eating, and can maybe identify olive oil as a key component, but
generally have a hard time with the rest of the definition. So I’ll start by sharing the Traditional Healthy
Mediterranean Diet Pyramid. As you
can see, all the foods are familiar, but are simply eaten in a different
proportion than the typical American diet.
More whole grains, greens, beans, fruits and fish, with less meat and
processed foods. And contrary to the
low-fat craze of the 90’s, healthful fats like those in nuts, olives, and oily
fish are heartily encouraged. It’s a
satiating and delicious way to eat.

Another component of the Mediterranean lifestyle is drinking
one to two cocktails or glasses of wine or beer every day. Recommending alcohol is controversial,
because of the concern with overdoing it – the health benefits turn in to risks
pretty quickly after you surpass the couple drinks a day mark. But when enjoyed in moderation, spirits,
beer, and wine are all linked to lower risk of heart disease, type II diabetes,
and mental illness. The vital detail is
that drinking must be reserved and regular. And there is still no safe level of alcohol
recommended for pregnant women. For more
information about the pros and cons, visit the Harvard School of Public Health page
on alcohol.

For more information about how to cook yummy Mediterranean
meals at home, perhaps while sipping a glass of wine, visit the recipes section of the Oldways
website.