Iowa Health - Des Moines is now UnityPoint Health - Des Moines

Eat Like a European?

March 18, 2013

Provided By:

We might want to take some diet advice from our European friends from across "the pond." Research has shown following a Mediterranean-inspired diet (heart-healthy eating pattern based on traditional food and cooking styles) reduces your risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases. 

Eatright.org explains what this diet places an emphasis on:

  • Plenty of exercise and enjoying meals with others.
  • Eating fish or shellfish at least twice a week.
  • Eating plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nuts.
  • Replacing butter with healthy, liquid fats like olive oil.
  • Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods.
  • Small portions of red meat.
  • Red wine, in moderation, if appropriate.