It’s time to rethink the Mediterranean Diet beyond just food
It turns out that a lot of The Mediterranean Diet’s well-proven health benefits (think heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation) may actually be down to more than just food. Visit traditional Mediterranean communities and you’ll be immersed in a lifestyle. It encompasses not only what you eat but also how you eat and live. A list of foods is an honourable starting point. But, neglecting the lifestyle practices central to the Mediterranean Diet could leave you falling short of reaping the full profile of health benefits you oh so deserve. So, here we shed light on three foundations to nail on your Mediterranean Diet journey.
Mindful Eating and Pleasure
At the heart of the Mediterranean Diet lies mindful eating. It encourages you to savor each bite and pay attention to the flavors, textures and aromas of your food. Yes, switching off your TV and letting go of TikTok, Instagram and everything else on your phone is involved. By practicing mindful eating, you become more attuned to your body's hunger and fullness cues, paving the way to a healthier relationship with food. This approach allows you to truly enjoy your meals and derive pleasure from the sensory experience. The end result? Improved satisfaction and a reduced tendency to over- or undereat. Download our Mindful Eating Activity to get started.
Social Connections and Community
Gather around the table and share meals with loved ones, it’s the Mediterranean way. This eating pattern recognises just how important social connection is and the positive impact on well-being. Science now shows regular social interactions can lower stress levels, improve mental health, and even help you live longer. So, embrace the Mediterranean tradition of communal dining and fostering connections with family, friends and your community.
Active Lifestyle and Daily Movement
Another key aspect of the Mediterranean lifestyle? Regular physical activity. From leisurely walks to more vigorous outdoor activities, the Mediterranean region is all about an active lifestyle. Getting some daily movement into your routine not only boosts heart health but also overall well-being and mood. Find activities that make you feel good so that weaving them into daily life is breezy. It could be climbing, walking your dog, yoga.. the sky's the limit!
The Mediterranean diet is not simply a list of foods to include or exclude from your plate. It is a holistic approach to healthy living. By embracing mindful eating, social connections and daily movement, you can unlock the true potential of the Mediterranean lifestyle for a happier, healthier you. If you're ready to take on a Mediterranean lifestyle, book an appointment with our team of Accredited Practising Dietitians. Together, we'll create a personalised plan to support you in making sustainable changes for long-term health and well-being.
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THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET EBOOK: BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO EATING MORE MEDITERRANEAN
Our latest Mediterranean Diet ebook is your one-stop beginner’s guide to eating more Mediterranean. It will leave you confident in taking the principles of the Med Diet and whisking, stirring, simmering them into meals that truly taste delicious.
We gently folded in over 20 Dietitian-curated drool-worthy recipes, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, dressings and snacks. Then, added a practical snack product guide before garnishing with everyday eating tips and a weekly challenge list to tick off.
Like a cookbook but with a twist. Because each recipe, tip and suggestion is Dietitian-approved and tested.