Is the Mediterranean Diet the Healthiest Diet? | Eat Smarter | Dietitian Q&A

Is the Mediterranean Diet the Healthiest Diet? | Eat Smarter | Dietitian Q&A

The Mediterranean diet may be the healthiest diet in the world. Rather than a strict meal plan, it’s a way of eating that emphasizes enjoying whole foods and regular physical activity. Here, we give you a blueprint to follow the Mediterranean diet-whether you want to make small changes or overhaul your entire way of eating.

Q: What is the Mediterranean diet?
A: The Mediterranean diet is more of a healthy-eating lifestyle than a restrictive diet. It emphasizes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables as well regularly eating fish, nuts and other foods with healthy fats while limiting processed foods, red meats in excess and refined grains, like white bread. The Mediterranean diet also allows the intake of red wine.

Q: I’m trying the Mediterranean diet for the first time. Where do I start?
A: Starting off slowly with introducing some Mediterranean-based meals/snacks into your diet will be a great way to begin and easier to maintain. Think about substitutes also. Instead of using vegetable oil, use olive oil.

Q: Is the Mediterranean diet the healthiest?
A: The Mediterranean diet continues to prove itself as one of the healthiest ways to eat. In 2019, it was voted the best diet for the second year in a row by U.S News & World Report.

Q: Can you eat pizza on the Mediterranean diet?
A: Yes. Pizza is originated from Italy which is apart of the Mediterranean region. Just be consciously aware of how much cheese is being utilized.

Q: Is the Mediterranean diet better than Keto?
A: Keto is a low-to-no carb diet with a high fat intake, making your fat storage the main source of energy, which in result, losing fat faster. Keto is not sustainable, and many tend to backtrack once being on the diet for too long. The Mediterranean diet is full of healthy macros and micronutrients that our body needs…no need to cut out fruits, some veggies, and whole grains.

Q: How do I follow the Mediterranean diet while eating out?
A: Add veggies with your meals. Cut back on fried foods. Substitute Refined carbs with complex carbs. Minimize your use of condiments.

Q: Is the Mediterranean diet good for people with diabetes?
A: Yes. This lifestyle is great for everyone. The Mediterranean diet is a well-balanced macronutrient friendly diet.

Q: Can I do the Mediterranean diet if I don’t like fish?
A: Absolutely. Fish has some great health benefits, but the Mediterranean diet does not revolve around seafood.

Q: Is the Mediterranean diet good for kids too?
A: Kids should get the opportunity to enjoy all foods and not be restricted but introducing the Mediterranean diet into your kids’ lifestyle allows them to eat healthier and more balanced.

Q: What are the best Mediterranean snacks?
A: Carrots. Hummus. Greek yogurt. Dried fruits. Nuts/seeds. Fruit.

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