3. Preview
How did this culture come to be?
What exactly IS the Mediterranean Diet?
How does this lifestyle influence our world
today?
4. “The Sea Between Lands”
Blending of cultures led to
“melting pot” of cuisines
Islamic, American, African,
and Roman influences
Trade route allowed for
transfer of herbs, spices,
exotic fruits and vegetables
Heavy reliance on grains to
feed the masses during
times of disparity
Known as the “Poor Man’s
Diet”
5. Historical Background
Ancel Keys’ Seven
Country Study
First to discover
connection between the
region’s diet with
longevity and good
health
Coined the phrase “The
Mediterranean Diet”
Prompted further
research worldwide
6. What is the Mediterranean
Diet?
THE PYRAMID:
Heavily plant based
Emphasis on grains, beans
nuts and seeds
Olive oil as principle source
of fat
Weekly consumption of
yogurt, cheese, low-fat
dairy products
Moderate seafood &
poultry consumption
Little to no red meats
No heavily sugared or
processed foods
7. The Lifestyle
“Food as an art”
Daily Physical Activity
Fresh Food Markets
Grocery shopping done
daily
Leisurely Meals
“Siesta”
2-3 hour mealtime
Daily Red Wine
Consumption
8. Worldwide Influence
Medical Implementation:
Reduction in heart disease,
stroke, T2 Diabetes
Improvement in Cognitive
Performance
Improved fertility
Decrease risk for Parkinson’s
Disease and Alzheimer’s
Disease
Improvement in mental health
Weight Loss
Reduces cholesterol and high
blood pressure
Fights cancer
Defense against chronic
diseases
Reduced mortality
Longer life-span
