Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet is based on the theory that eating olive oil and red wine reduces the risk of obesity and heart problems. This diet plan gets its name from the countries that border the Mediterranean Sea where many recipes for the Mediterranean diet originated.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet menu emphasizes eating meals that are high in monosaturated fats, or goods fats. The Mediterranean diet plan claims that these good fats, for example olive oil, will counteract the animal fats that cause high cholesterol.

In addition, this diet plan contends that red wine, which is common in traditional Mediterranean diets, has antioxidants that are good for the body, and may even prevent heart disease.

The Differences between American and Mediterranean Diets
When comparing the Mediterranean food pyramid with the one designed by the USDA you will notice several differences. While they both encourage fruits and vegetables, but the Mediterranean diet contains very little red meat.

In addition The Mediterranean diet involves eating cold water fish at least three times a week. The omega-3 oils are intended to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of heart problems.

Also, the USDA does not distinguish between the different types of fat; rather it concentrates on total fat consumption. However, the Mediterranean diet distinguishes between saturated fates, mono saturated fats, and trans fats.

Does It Work?
Because the countries in the Mediterranean report twenty percent less deaths do to coronary disease, a lot of attention is being paid to simple Mediterranean diet recipes. Current studies are comparing the diet food Mediterranean pyramid to the American heart association’s guidelines for eating. While these studies are ongoing, there is preliminary proof that a modified Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of heart disease and may help reduce the chance of obesity.

How Can You Get Started?
If after reading this article you’ve determined that this fun and easy diet is right for you, it is easy to get started. You can obtain a copy of a Mediterranean diet in several locations. To begin, there are several recipes for a Mediterranean diet available online. In addition you can get a Mediterranean diet cookbook at almost any book store. Also, you can find modified versions of this diet, such as a diabetes Mediterranean diet.