If you want to eat well, and I mean really well, then look no further than the tables of those who still enjoy the traditional Mediterranean style of eating in countries like Italy.
This is where people have truly mastered the art of living to eat. Food is not simply fuel, but a pleasure, a pre-occupation and a focus around which the rhythm of each day and each season naturally unfurls.
Balance is implicit within meals and the use of fresh ingredients an absolute foregone conclusion. Vegetables and fruits are plentiful, fish makes regular appearances and bread is both good quality and rustic. It is these kinds of elements which scientists around the world believe hold the key to vitality and health associated with the Mediterranean diet.
Balance
Balanced eating is inclusive and the Mediterranean style of eating does it really well. By this I mean that it does not ban ingredients, but rather integrates them within recipes and mealtimes in the right amounts. Take salt. We can not live without this vital seasoning; yet too much can strain our circulation. Getting just the right amount to bring out the maximum flavour and enjoyment while not overdoing it, is the key.
The same goes for oils. Sunflower and olive oils are positively health enhancing.....when you use them in balanced amounts. A beautiful soft pesto needs plenty of oil and you if look at the label you may be shocked by its level of fat. But remember Mediterranean meals are about balance and a small amount of pesto goes a long way with pasta.
And yes, wine and puddings are part of the balance. Alcohol itself when drunk in moderation (this means one 125ml glass a day) appears to help improve levels of good cholesterol in our blood and red wine, made from the whole grape including skin and pips, is especially good for resveratrol and other protective phenolic compounds. Add to this some fresh fruit with a little fantastic quality ice cream to finish a meal or a small piece of luxurious dark chocolate which is also packed with antioxidants and you have an ideal end to a well balanced meal.
A naturally low GI food, this simply means what any Italian knows. A little bit goes a long way. Because it is digested gradually, blood sugar levels rise gently after eating helping to keep you feeling happily satisfied long after your meal is over which means all you need is the odd piece of nutrient rich, sun drenched fruit until the next delicious Mediterranean meal begins again.