The Mediterranean diet really does work! Just look at one of the most successful diet/health trials, the Lyon Diet Heart Study. This was a study of people who had recently had heart disease, and were treated with either a Mediterranean-type diet or a “prudent Western diet.” After four years, those who followed the Mediterranean diet had 72 percent fewer major cardiac events, 56 percent fewer deaths, and 61 percent fewer cancers. Stunning results!
Those numbers may be difficult to absorb, so I’ll repeat them:
72% fewer major cardiac events
56% fewer deaths
61% fewer cancers
We know of no drug trials that have produced these kinds of results.
The Mediterranean diet used in this trial emphasized more root vegetables and green vegetables, fresh fruits, beans and legumes, whole-grain breads and fiber, and fish. The main fats in the diet were olive and canola oil; study participants ate less meat, butter and cream. Moderate alcohol consumption was allowed.
If you are faced with family members who are resistant to change, don’t nag. It doesn't make sense to sacrifice your relationships on the altar of nutrition. But do make sure they have plenty of good food available to them. After being exposed to better food for a while, their tastes will gradually adjust.
Keep in mind that this is not a diet you follow until you lose weight or feel better. This is a way of life: a new perspective for some, and a return to good sense for others.
