đFully Loaded Guide to the Mediterranean Diet: No Myths, Just Real Food
Tired of diets that demonize certain foods? Letâs set the record straight with the Mediterranean dietâitâs about balance, flavour, and eating foods that genuinely nourish your body. Hereâs how you can enjoy this diet without falling for common misconceptions: - Proteins: Red meat isn't the villain here. Enjoy beef, lamb, and chicken, cooking them in ways that preserve their natural flavoursâgrilling, roasting, you name it. Seafood, too, is a big player. Load up on fish like salmon, mackerel, and whatever else you fancy. Theyâre packed with omega-3s for your brain and heart. And remember, if you can't do shellfish, no sweatâthere's plenty of fish in the sea that are just as nutritious. - Fats: Hereâs where it gets good. Butter, ghee, and olive oil are all in play. Use butter or ghee for cooking to enjoy their flavours and nutritional benefits. Olive oil is perfect for dressing salads or light sautĂŠing. Donât shy away from avocados and nuts like almonds and walnuts; they provide essential healthy fats and taste great. - Carbs: This diet loves its whole, unprocessed carbs. Sweet potatoes, whole grains like quinoa and farroâthese are not just fillers, they're energy providers. They come packed with nutrients that keep you going all day long. - Vegetables and Fruits: Load up on a variety of veggiesâspinach, broccolini, capsicums, and more. They're essential for their vitamins and minerals. Fruits are your natural sugar hitâthey come packaged with fibres and antioxidants, which help your body process their sugars more efficiently. - Dairy and Eggs: Keep the dairy, especially full-fat versions like Greek yogurt and traditional cheeses, which are richer in nutrients and keep you satisfied longer. Eggs are a powerhouse, perfect for starting your day or as a protein boost in salads or sandwiches. - Salt and Seasonings: Real salt, especially unrefined sea salt or Himalayan salt, is your friend, especially if youâre active. Itâs crucial for hydration and preventing muscle cramps. Season your dishes with a mix of herbs and spicesâgarlic, oregano, paprika, and others to enhance flavours without overloading on sodium.