Like most men and women, weight loss is typically at the top of the resolution list. And while there are a ton of fad diets out there, the Mediterranean Diet is viewed as the eating plan for good health. In fact, it meets the newly released U.S. Dietary Guidelines. The Mediterranean diet is heavy on protein and includes fruits and limited dairy, plus olive oil and may even a glass of red wine. The USDA guidelines recommend people consume 2,000 calories a day including 6.5 ounces of protein, 2.5 cups of fruit and 2 cups of dairy.
And while you incorporate this diet into your lifestyle know that research has shown that the traditional Mediterranean diet reduces your risk of heart disease. An analysis of more than 1.5 million adults demonstrated that by following these dietary guidelines, people reduced their risk of death from heart disease and cancer, as well as reduced incidence of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases according to the CDC.
Essential Components of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet focuses on seven food groups shown in the graph below. It also emphasizes the following:
The Basics
Getting started on the Mediterranean is simple. It’s not about a quick fix or a strict diet plan. It’s a formula for day-to-day healthy eating for long-term health benefits. So, remember to shop the perimeter of the supermarket, eat seasonal foods, and make good food choices. It might just save your life.
Coby N. Harrison, MD
Undergraduate – Spring Hill College, Mobile, AL
Medical School – the University of Alabama at Birmingham
Internship and Residency – University of South Alabama Medical Center, Mobile, AL
Specialty – Internal Medicine
Certification – American Board of Internal Medicine
PERSONAL:
Dr. Harrison works alongside her husband, Jason Harrison, MD at Internal Medicine Center.
