Mediterranean diet – a way of life

19 Mar Mediterranean diet – a way of life

The importance of a proper diet for good health has been largely lost in modern times. The actual word “diet” comes from the ancient Greek verb diaitaomai- dietomai, meaning diago vion, I live. It is a way of life. Our society is looking to the Mediterranean diet for its nutritional guidance since it has always provided health, vitality and longevity to the people of the Mediterranean region.

Olive oil first in the nutritional model for humanity UNESCO recognized the importance of the Mediterranean diet [UNESCO 5 COM, November 2010] as Intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2010.

The Mediterranean diet constitutes a set of skills, knowledge, practices and traditions ranging from the landscape to the table, including the crops, harvesting, fishing, conservation, processing, preparation and, particularly, consumption of food. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a nutritional model that has remained constant over time and space, consisting mainly of olive oil, cereals, fresh or dried fruit and vegetables, a moderate amount of fish, dairy and meat, and many condiments and spices, all accompanied by wine or infusions, always respecting beliefs of each community. However, the Mediterranean diet (from the Greek diaita, or way of life) encompasses more than just food. It promotes social interaction, since communal meals are the cornerstone of social customs and festive events. It has given rise to a considerable body of knowledge, songs, maxims, tales and legends. The system is rooted in respect for the territory and biodiversity, and ensures the conservation and development of traditional activities and crafts linked to fishing and farming in the Mediterranean communities which Soria in Spain, Koroni in Greece, Cilento in Italy and Chefchaouen in Morocco are examples. Women play a particularly vital role in the transmission of expertise, as well as knowledge of rituals, traditional gestures and celebrations, and the safeguarding of techniques. http://www.unesco.org/culture/ich/RL/ 00394.

From the Unesco resolution, we quote:

“regular physical activity, […] abundant plant foods, fresh fruit as the typical daily dessert, olive oil as the principal source of fat, dairy products (principally cheese and yogurt), and fish and poultry consumed in low to moderate amounts, zero to four eggs consumed weekly, red meat consumed in low amounts, and wine consumed in low to moderate amounts.”

Mediterranean diet and the new food pyramid

In recent years, the food pyramid has been greatly influenced by a more Mediterranean approach to easily guide to a healthier style of life, help maintain the right weight and generally keep you fit. We have put in our food pyramid all three PHILIPPOS Olive Oils – Extra virgin olive oil , Delicate , and Organic – because we are sure that their high quality and purity, can help you reach your ideal weight and stay fit.

Nutrition – a positive attitude about food

Here are some easy suggestions.

• Choose a lot of local fresh vegetables in season.
• Eat your food raw if possible, since temperatures and overcooking destroy precious nutrients.
• Choose natural non processed food; try whole wheat and multi grain cereals.
• Be free in preparing food: you can adapt recipes to your taste and to your country and season availability: if you use natural ingredients and a hint of creativity you can enjoy excellent healthy daily meals.
• In your recipes, if you substitute animal fats with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, you are in for a pleasant surprise and you will be giving a gift to your health.
• Choose your spices, herbs, onion, garlic, they will add your personal touch to your dish.

Weight loss – a balanced diet and olive oil

The simplest way to lose weight and keep it off is both scientific and practical. Scientifically, the glycemic level is what makes us feel hungry or full. In practice we have to consume a combination of foods. Fresh vegetables, a portion of chicken, fish, meat or legumes and a serving of pasta, rice or bread plus raw extra virgin olive oil. That is how we balance the glycemic level and maintain for hours a satisfactory healthy feeling for hours. This way of eating is enhanced if the flour products are whole wheat or multi-grain.
Adding PHILIPPOS to your dish will bring out the flavour and taste of any meal.