Most people know that a Mediterranean-style diet is "good for them," but many lack the information that determines the diet's success. The Mediterranean Heart Diet does what most doctors who recommend the diet don' spells out which foods are "out" and which are "in," and why.Doctors recommend a Mediterranean eating style to thousands who are diagnosed each year with heart disease because it is "heart-healthy"-it promotes lower saturated-fat consumption, and helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. It is an all-purpose style of eating that also benefits those at risk of developing certain cancers and those with a diabetic condition, because it is high in antioxidant-rich foods and whole grains. The Mediterranean Heart Diet not only provides a full range of satisfying recipes but also covers the science behind the diet's health benefits. Readers learn to create their own healthful eating plans and establish new habits. More than 140 delicious recipes are included, from satisfying Lentil and Broccoli Soup to tangy Halibut in Citrus Sauce. All recipes feature nutritional analysis by serving, including food exchanges.
I like that this book is educational enough while focusing on the recipes. About the first 50 pages explain why the traditional Mediterranean diet may be the best way to eat (sorry keto, veganism, and breatharianism).
It seems that there is a huge difference between the traditional and modern Mediterranean diets since globalism and has increased the use of what could be called unhealthy "foods" and meals.
My understanding is that the recipes and ideals of this book are not as popular as they once were.
Of course, the American, Mediterranean (which spans multiple countries, anyway), and Japanese diets are compared. As expected, the American diet is comparably far more likely to send a person to a large, early grave. I was actually still impressed with the bit that was mentioned about a Japanese diet, though.
The only thing that I disliked was the lack of pictures. I am a visual person, and anything helps. Still, these were some seriously healthy recipes, and I was impressed by that.
Honestly, this is the kind of recipe book I've book looking for - probably long before I knew I even wanted or needed it.
The only recipe I've tried so far was the Hazelnut Biscotti, and I modified it by turning it into Almond Walnut Biscotti. It was delicious. Yes, the point was to cook the other healthy meals, but I felt like baking on the weekend.
I will be trying out other recipes. The Olive Focaccia, Chicken Valencia, Cucumber Gazpacho, Mushroom Frittata, Zucchini and Garbanzo Beans Provencal are some that caught my interest. I am excited about this one.
The first few pages were excellent, but then the informational portion became repetitive. It could have been half the length. The recipes were excellent.
Very simple and straight forward with a sample menu for both men and women, suggested levels for triglycerides and cholesterol, list of types of fats and their sources, antioxidant sources and benefits, high fiber food list, diet pyramid, snacking tips, and easy to prepare recipes.
I have tried a few recipes and have more slated for the near future. All in all a very helpful book, especially for a newbie to this type of food choice.