June 2011 NutraSolutions -- For many, following a Mediterranean diet is a simple and tasty way of eating healthy. It incorporates a number of nutritionally beneficial elements, with flavors that appeal to scores of consumers. However, formulating for the diet requires a degree of moderation and the realization that consumer attitudes do not change overnight. Among the findings:
Choosing Better Options That said, much of the diet’s positive reputation stems from the fairly obvious healthful qualities of its ingredients. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes several things, including: eating primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. It is also effective to replace butter with healthy fats, such as olive and canola oil, and use herbs and spices, instead of salt, to flavor foods. Also important is limiting red meat to no more than a few times a month, and eating fish and poultry at least twice a week. Additionally, people are advised to drink red wine in moderation.