Mediterranean Diet Food Pyramid Food Pyramid Traditional Vs.

For most of us, the most recognized symbol of healthy foods is in the food pyramid. It indicates which foods we should eat that portion sizes so that our body gets the nutrients it needs. If you create a healthy diet you would do well to look at the Mediterranean diet pyramid. The Mediterranean diet is recognized as one of the healthiest diets in the world and is actually endorsed by the Mayo Clinic.

What is the Mediterranean diet food pyramid


The Mediterranean diet pyramid is an alternative to traditional which is increasingly popular because it is not based on popular food trends. Food traditions of the Mediterranean countries have been recognized as very healthy, and the food they eat is one of the main factors for health. Know the difference between traditional Mediterranean food pyramid will help you improve your health.

The Mediterranean diet pyramid is significantly different from the traditional, with which we are familiar. There are some glaring differences, namely;

    The Mediterranean has a single class of fats
    Red meat is high in the Mediterranean pyramid as a food to eat less with Sweets / desserts.
    Olive oil is grouped with fruits and vegetables as something to be consumed frequently

The top of the pyramid starts Mediterranean diet with red meat as a source of animal protein. Red meat and pastries are consumed less food in the Mediterranean, about 2-3 times per month. Basically, the Mediterranean diet is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fats and omega-3.

The lower level of the pyramid consists of fruits, vegetables, legumes (beans), nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, couscous, brown rice, polenta, and other whole grains. People in the Mediterranean rarely eat processed grains (ie white flour). Cooking food actually kills most nutrients and make them indigestible. So it is always better to eat raw or partially cooked food.

Interestingly, the oil is grouped with fruits and vegetables in the Mediterranean pyramid. As you can imagine, olive oil is a big part of the Mediterranean diet and contain many dishes. Monounsaturated oils such as olive oil are anti-inflammatory and are good for diseases such as asthma and arthritis. They are also heart health because omega 3 fatty acids lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increases HDL ("good") cholesterol. Olive oil is more healthy extra virgin olive olive oil.

You may be wondering how people in the Mediterranean receive their iron because they do not eat much red meat. Legumes (beans) and green leafy vegetables are also good sources of iron and the Mediterranean diet is full of these healthy foods. In fact, the entire pyramid of the Mediterranean diet consists of healthy foods, ensuring that those who follow the Mediterranean experience optimal health food.