Is Italy Making the Mediterranean Diet Even Better?
Each year, a panel of prestigious experts convenes to assess popular eating plans and pick the best one. This year, the Mediterranean diet came out on top for the 7th consecutive year. It’s no wonder: Studies prove this way of eating protects against virtually every age-related disease. But what if there was a twist that works wonders on our waistlines and whole new level of tasty? There is! By adding in more Italian-inspired favorites like plant protein and olive oil, standard Mediterranean fare gets a powerful upgrade. This Italian Mediterranean diet helped busy mom Mindy Morrow shed 81 pounds and slash her sky-high cholesterol, plus inspired her to help her own mother, Carol, get healthier, too. Here, learn how you can reap the benefits of an Italian Mediterranean diet with delicious foods you already love.
What is the Italian Mediterranean diet? The Italian Mediterranean diet borrows the best, healthy practices from a region linked to a long, healthy life. (Click through to learn how the diet eaten in Blue Zones can help you slim.) To begin with, you’ll load up on staples like fresh veggies, olive oil, herbs and spices. Plant-based proteins like beans are a must-have, and moderate amounts of fish, poultry, whole grains and nuts round out meals. Avoiding red and processed meats as well as sweets and processed foods is key. Without a doubt, the recipe combinations are endless!
Excerpted from Yahoo! Life
