The MediterrAsian Way is an eating program that highlights the best features of both the Mediterranean and Asian diets and lifestyles in regard to their beneficial effects on health and weight management. It is promoted as a recipe book and while about half of the book is devoted to recipes it also contains a comprehensive dietary plan.
The authors entice dieters with the promise of being able to eat delicious foods such as pizza, noodles, sushi, and curries ‘all washed down with a glass of your favorite wine or beer’. They state that this way of eating will not only help dieters to stay lean and healthy but will also reduce the risk of many diseases and may actually increase lifespan.
The Mediterrasian-way, There are many similarities between Mediterranean and Asian cultures and a bulk of scientific evidence indicates that these factors are probably responsible for the superior health of cultures that eat in accordance with traditional dietary practices.
* They consume a large amount of plant foods including grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes and nuts.
* Fish is included in the diet on a regular basis.
* The majority of the fat in the diet comes from vegetable or fish oils.
* Consumption of red meat and animal fats is low.
* Alcohol is consumed often in moderation and usually with meals.
* They have physically active lifestyles.
* They have a strong social support system, an optimistic outlook, and always set aside some time each day for relaxation.
Calorie counts for the suggested meals work out to about half that of a typical Western style meal. The portions are generous, however, the inclusion of a large amount of fruit and vegetables means that the calories remain relatively low while the nutritional quality is high.
Recommended Foods
Whole grain carbohydrates, fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts, avocado,olive or vegetable oils, lean poultry, seafood, and tea.
Alcohol in the form of wine or beer is allowed in moderation.
