The document discusses the history and components of the Mediterranean diet. The diet originated from the blending of cultures in Mediterranean coastal regions, incorporating influences from Islamic, African, American, and Roman cuisines. It is characterized by high consumption of plant-based foods like grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds, along with olive oil, dairy, poultry, and fish in moderation and little red meat. Research has shown that following this lifestyle is associated with reduced risk of heart disease, obesity, and other chronic illnesses as well as longer lifespans.

1. The
Mediterranean
Diet
By: Alana Sherman

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 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

9. “The Golden Standard of
Living”