What Exactly Is A "Mediterranean Diet"?

New York Times writer Tara Parker-Pope answers this question in her latest article, Confusion About Mediterranean Cuisine. We have been hearing about the benefits of the "Mediterranean Diet" for ages now, and a new report links Mediterranean dietary habits with better cognitive health, and a lower rate of Alzheimer's disease.

Unlike many other dietary fads, the Mediterranean Diet is simplistic and common sense. Although most of us think of cheese and beef laden treats like lasagna and risotto when we think "Mediterranean," the diet is specific to coastal communities which eat a lot of - surprise! - fruits and vegetables. Although carb lovers can rejoice, as the base of the Mediterranean diet pyramid consists of "bread, pasta, rice, couscous, polenta, other whole grains, and potatoes."

Although not vegetarian by any means, meat is only a small part of the diet, and is usually added in small amounts for added flavor and body. The classic rule of thumb is "meat once a month," although this is something of an exaggeration. Refined sugar, flour, and butter are also eaten sparingly "if at all." Aside from olive oil, the traditional Mediterranean diet is very low in fats.

The Mediterranean diet was first "discovered" in the 1960s, when people in the Mediterranean coastal areas were found to have the lowest rates of chronic disease worldwide. This despite the fact that the same areas had some of the lowest rates of medical care, and high rates of smoking and drinking.

It should also be noted that the "real" base of the Mediterranean diet pyramid is daily exercise, and lots of it.