There’s undoubtedly one thing within the water over there within the Mediterranean. They crank out killer vinos, make excellent olive oil, and preserve an consuming plan so iconically wholesome (and delish) that it was simply named the best diet of the year—for the fourth yr in a row.
In fact, the Mediterranean eating regimen, which is modeled after the standard consuming habits of the Italians and Greeks, is nothing new. And what makes it such a winner is that it is actually not a eating regimen in any respect, however extra of a mode of consuming, nutritionist Cara Harbstreet, RD, proprietor of Street Smart Nutrition, beforehand instructed Women’s Health.
The aim? Devour as many (recent!) entire meals—fish, poultry, veggies, legumes, entire grains, nuts, and beans—as doable, and nix processed meats, refined grains, and added sugars. Different staples? “Wholesome fat, comparable to extra-virgin olive oil and walnuts,” says New York Metropolis-based nutritionist Samantha Cassetty, RD.
Although meat, dairy, and (oh sure) pasta make appearances in a Mediterranean eating regimen, they don’t seem to be front-and-center. That mentioned, the Mediterranean eating regimen is “about having fun with the entire expertise of consuming,” Cassetty explains. “Meals isn’t forbidden or feared; it’s appreciated. This vital issue is lacking on many different consuming plans.”
Having fun with all of this goodness all through your day may look a bit one thing like this: You begin off your day with a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with fruit and a handful of almonds for breakfast. For lunch, you will have a salad loaded with cucumbers, white beans, tomatoes, tuna, and olives. Then, for dinner, broccoli rabe sautéed in garlic and oil tossed with grape tomatoes, white beans, and orecchiette pasta. Oh! And be at liberty to have a glass of purple wine to shut out the night.
Should you’re undecided the place to begin, although, crack open these best-selling, nutritionist-approved Mediterranean eating regimen cookbooks (and a bottle of purple!).
