Ditch the fad diets for the mediterranean diet… Could weight loss be this simple?

According to a new study done by Alpro, fad diets lead to short-term weight loss yet can often be a waste of time in the long term.

Whether you’re following the Atkins and Dukan The Fast Diet, The Alkaline Diet to The Baby Food Diet, The Blood-Type Diet, The French Woman Diet, The Paleo Diet and the new 5:2 regime, these often turn out to be passing fancies.

More and more slimmers are realising that the fad diet promises of shedding huge amounts of weight in just a few weeks are either false, or that the diets are impossible to follow.

The reality is that most of these diets are so impractical that most people give up within just a few days.

The key to long term health and weight loss success is to create healthy eating and healthy lifestyle habits and attitudes for life ! The Greek Mediterranean Diet incorporates the basics of healthy eating.

The Mediterranean diet has long been a favourite of doctors and dieticians, described by the Mayo Clinic as a heart-healthy way to eat. Reflecting the traditional cooking style of the countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, meals feature the foods and preparations typical of the area.

In the Mediterranean diet pyramid, every meal is ideally based on fruits, vegetables and mostly whole grains. These form the base of the pyramid, along with olive oil, beans, nuts, legumes, seeds, herbs and spices. Next are fish and seafood, which should be eaten often – at least twice a week. Poultry, cheese, eggs and goat’s yogurt follow next; moderate portions of each are acceptable daily or weekly. At the very top of the pyramid are meats and sweets; these foods should be enjoyed less often, only on occasion.

Research has shown that following a Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of heart disease. Studies have also linked it to a reduced risk of cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. There was also another interesting  study which showed that taking drugs reduced heart attacks and strokes by 25 % while the Mediterranean diet reduced them by 30 %. Isn’t that amazing?

While the health benefits are impressive and hard to argue with, even more important for food lovers is that dishes from this part of the world are both tasty and satisfying. Meals are based mostly on plant-based foods, healthy fats like olive oil are used instead of butter, flavourful seasonings and marinades take the place of salt, red meat is limited, lean proteins like fish and chicken are often grilled, baked or broiled and the occasional glass of wine is encouraged, though optional.

Mediterranean cuisine is naturally vegetarian-friendly and appeals to diners of all ages and nationalities. The sheer variety of ingredients and clean preparations yield dishes that are both comforting and yet have rich, complex flavours.

The most important component of the Mediterranean diet might very well be social, with an emphasis on enjoying meals together with family and friends.

There has never been any secret to following a healthy diet. It always has been, and always will be, about eating the right foods as part of a balanced diet, and exercising, while allowing yourself a treat now and again.

How much of the traditional “Mediterranean” foods do you have in your diet? Do you enjoy the flavours?