Incr”edible” is the word I often choose to use to describe my trips to Italy because of the pleasure factor I associate with Italian food. Actually, I’m infatuated with the cuisine’s role in what’s become known as the Mediterranean Diet.
In America, “diet” tends to be equated with deprivation so, first off, I want everyone to recognize that “diet” comes from the Greek word “diaita” which means “way of life”. Thus, I am going to henceforth refer to it as the Mediterranean Way. While surrounded by astounding abundance, we have become anxious eaters- we obsess more about food & derive less pleasure than people in other countries such as those in the Mediterranean.
Actually, there’s an interesting study that was done by Paul Rozen, a University of Pennsylvania psychologist, in collaboration with Claude Fischler, a French sociologist. Their research involved a number of cross-cultural surveys on food attitudes: when asked what comes to mind upon hearing the phrase “chocolate cake”, Americans most frequent response was “guilt” while the French responded with “celebration”…”heavy cream” elicited “unhealthy” from Americans while the French chose “whipped”.
Adopting the Mediterranean Way as a lifestyle can restore the pleasure or should I say p”leisure” factor while nurturing one’s mind, body, & spirit. Instead of just refueling, we can turn a meal into a ritual for our senses & make it an opportunity to connect with those who are special to us.
I’ve created the following acronym for the Med Diet to simplify designing & practicing this way of life…
Mediterranean Diet: A Lifestyle for Well-Being
M: moderation is key; yet it’s all inclusive…
E: emphasis on plant-based foods including olive oil…
D: diminish consumption of animal products…
D: drink water; plus, wine to please the plate & the palate…
I: incorporate activity & adequate rest…
E: enjoy the conviviality of a supportive network…
T: transition to fresh & minimally processed foods…
If you hunger for more information regarding the Mediterranean Way, I invite you to check out this video and/or the Intuitive Eating section on my website: Fannypackfitness.com
Buon appetite!!!