National Mediterranean Diet Month
May 12, 2017
May brings us National Mediterranean Diet Month. This is a perfect time to espouse upon the multitude of benefits that can be derived from this type of diet and how to incorporate it into your life and the lives of those you love.
Home Care in Menlo Park CA: National Mediterranean Diet Month
The Diet
Twenty-one countries have the Mediterranean Sea as their coastline including Greece, Italy and Spain. This is the area from which the Mediterranean diet was derived. It became popular when researchers revealed that the population of this area experienced increased longevity and reduced levels of chronic disease such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and forms of dementia. They also showed reduced rates of colon, breast, prostate and uterus cancers.
It has since become a popular diet—not so much a diet but a way of life. The basis of it is a focus on locally-grown whole foods and little to no processed foods. Fruits and vegetables play a big role as well as fish, beans, nuts, seeds, garlic and whole grain products. Olive oil replaces butter and other fats. Small amounts of red meat, limited to about once a week, some poultry, and some low-fat dairy products such as yogurt, kefir, and goat cheese are found in this diet as well as eggs. A little red wine is sometimes consumed with meals. Herbs replace salt and water is the “drink of choice” as well as some teas and coffee.
Popular vegetables in this area of the world include leafy greens, eggplant, artichokes, tomatoes and fennel. Tahini is a popular dish created from almonds and sesame seeds. Chickpeas are used to make hummus.
The Benefits
The Mediterranean diet is considered to be one of the best forms of eating to promote a healthy heart and fight against inflammation. An abstract published by the Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, stated: “Together with regular physical activity and not smoking, our analyses suggest that over 80% of coronary heart disease, 70% of stroke, and 90% of type 2 diabetes can be avoided by healthy food choices that are consistent with the traditional Mediterranean diet.”
Home Care Provider
If your loved one is suffering from one of these chronic conditions and is unable to perform the daily activities of living, consider obtaining the services of a home care provider. These professionals can assist them with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, heart-healthy meal preparation, light housekeeping, running errands such as grocery shopping, and provide transportation. They can accompany your parent on daily walks or provide support and companionship during exercise class. They will help your parent remain engaged and social by attending social outings and events together or supplying transportation to the local senior community center.
If you or your loved one is looking for Home Care or Placement Services in Menlo Park, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990