About this topic
This is a heart healthy diet. It is based on widely used foods and cooking styles from many countries around the Mediterranean Sea. The main pattern for the diet is more plant foods and monounsaturated fats, or good fats, like olive oil. It has less red meats and carbs. You eat more grains, veggies, legumes, nuts, and fruits. Fish, poultry, and moderate amounts of wine are also included. ‚
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What will the results be?
Your diet will have less saturated fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides. It will be higher in fiber. This will help to keep your blood sugar steady. This diet lowers the chance of heart disease and other health problems. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
If you do not often eat this way, you will need to change your eating habits. Be sure to get regular exercise. It is believed to help the health benefits of this diet. ‚
What changes to diet are needed?
You may need to limit the amount of protein and carbs in your diet. Ask your dietitian for help planning meals that are right for you. ‚
What foods are good to eat?
- Fruits and veggies
- Whole grains, nuts, and legumes
- Foods high in fiber
- Plenty of fish and other seafood
- Olive oil (good fat)
- Small amounts of poultry
What foods should be limited or avoided?
- Red meats
- Sweets, desserts
- Eggs
- Butter
- Gravies and sauces
What problems could happen?
- Your weight may rise because your diet will be higher in fat from olive oil and nuts.
- You may have lower iron levels. Be sure to eat foods rich in iron. Also, eat foods rich in vitamin C. This will help your body take in iron.
- You may have lower calcium levels because you are eating less dairy products. Ask your doctor if you need to take a calcium supplement.
- Wine is often thought of as part of a Mediterranean diet. It is not needed and you may choose not to include it. Avoid wine if you are prone to alcohol abuse or are pregnant. Also, avoid it if you are at risk for breast cancer or have other illnesses that make it important for you to not have alcohol.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- If you have any concerns about your diet
Where can I learn more?
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics ‚
http://www.eatright.org/Public/content.aspx?id=6442451257&terms=Mediterranean+diet ‚
American Heart Association ‚
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/Mediterranean-Diet_UCM_306004_Article.jsp#.Tvhn9Vv3RQI ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚