This is a type of diet that is typical of the region bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. It is based on the trilogy of crops in the area such as vines, olive trees and wheat.

Countries who enjoy the Mediterranean diet are Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Greece, Portugal, the former Yugoslavia, Albania, San Marino, Monaco, Morocco, Tunisia, Malta, Libya, Israel, Jordan, Egypt and Syria.

Several studies have determined that this diet is beneficial to health. Consumers who carry a balanced diet with Mediterranean products have a lower risk of contracting and several diseases.

Food

The main foods that are part of this diet are as follows:

·  Olive oil as the principal source of fat.

·  Fresh products.

·  Dairy products provide calcium and fat-soluble vitamins.

·  Red Meat infrequently.

·  Beef and poultry and fish instead of red meat.

·  Nuts to contribute vitamin.

·  Drink wine moderately during meals. It is recommended to drink about a glass of wine at every meal.

·  Garlic, onions and aromatic herbs as a substitute for salt.

·  Fresh fruit and raw vegetables if possible. The recommended consumption is 5 per day.

·  Grains and vegetables at least twice a week.

·  Bread and pasta as a main source of carbohydrates.

Features

The Mediterranean diet has certain characteristics that define which include:

·  Low in saturated fat and the consumption of red meat is reduced.

·  High in monounsaturated fat from olive oil.

·  Balanceada fatty acids such as omega-6 and omega-3. These acid found in fish.

·  Low in animal protein.

·  Rich in antioxidants which can be found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts.

·  Rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, pulses and cereals.

Advantages

The benefits this type of diet are many among them:

·  Reduced risk of myocardial infarction.

·  Less risk of cancer, particularly colon and breast cancer.

·  Reduced risk of contracting respiratory allergies.

·  It prevents diabetes.

·  It prevents hypertension.

·  Fight cholesterol.

·  It produces greater longevity because the cells do not grow old.

Remarks

During the months of June 2004 and March 2007 there was a campaign to encourage the consumption of fruits and vegetables among the Spanish public.

This campaign was financed by the European Union, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Association and the 5 per day.

It is vital! "The campaign was looking for a change in eating habits to consume up to 5 pieces of fruit and vegetables a day, which is recommended by the scientific and medical community.

The main target of this project were first families under the age of 35 with children, children and adolescents. Secondly the rest of the population.