The Key to a Healthy Lifestyle

April 26, 2012

On a recent visit to Spain, I found living proof that the Mediterranean diet works. Walking through the streets and people-watching, I couldn’t help noticing that the population, as a whole, is incredibly fit and active. There are very few overweight people. For years, scientists have noticed that Mediterranean countries have less obesity and the related health problems: hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. The key seems to be the diet. Mediterranean cooking involves the basics of healthy eating: fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains, plus a splash of olive oil and perhaps a glass of red wine.

Another component of the healthy Spanish lifestyle is exercise. They walk or ride bicycles or take public transportation, which involves more walking than you might think. This glance at a healthier lifestyle was a real eye-opener for me. I came back 6 pounds lighter and with a new outlook on becoming and keeping fit.

For more information on the Mediterranean diet, try these books:

• Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Dummies by Meri Raffeto
• The Everything Mediterranean Diet Book by Connie Diekman
• The New Mediterranean Diet Cookbook : a Delicious Alternative for Lifelong Health by Nancy Harmon Jenkins
• Your Heart Needs the Mediterranean Diet by Emilia Klapp

Kathy D.
Lone Jack Branch