The Mediterranean Way of Eating

This book presents evidence-based research that validates the traditional Mediterranean way of eating with respect to health. It offers information about an enjoyable, healthy way of eating that has stood the test of time, along with practical suggestions for incorporating the Mediterranean diet into daily life. The book addresses nutrients found in Mediterranean foods, how they function in the body, and why they are essential for optimal health. It highlights the Mediterranean diet's effectiveness in weight management and prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases.

John J. B. Anderson, BA, MAT, MA, PhD, has been on the faculty of the Department of Nutrition in the Gillings School of Global Public Health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill since 1972. He has a bachelor's degree in history from Williams College, a master's degree in education from Harvard University, a master's degree in biology from Boston University, and a doctorate in physical biology (biochemistry) from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. His research career has centered on the linkages among nutrients, hormones, lifestyle factors, and bone health. He has published several books and written approximately 150 scientific articles. He is currently on the editorial boards of several journals, including the British Journal of Nutrition, Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, Osteoporosis International, and Nutrition Research. Marilyn C. Sparling, BS, MA, MPH, RD , LDN, is a registered and licensed dietitian recently retired from Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, where she was a clinical dietitian in the outpatient endocrinology division. She graduated from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a master's degree in public health, focusing on nutrition. She is a long-time professional member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Diabetes Association. She has coauthored several journal articles on nutrition and health. During her tenure at Duke, she became a certified diabetes educator (CDE), worked as a member of a multidisciplinary medical care team, and provided nutrition education and counseling in osteoporosis, diabetes, lipid disorders, and other chronic medical conditions.

What is a Mediterranean Diet? Common Components in Diverse Dietary Patterns Promote Health and Long Life. Dietary Patterns of the Mediterranean Nations: Then and Now. Critical Nutrients in Foods of Mediterranean Nations. Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Cardiovascular Diseases and the Metabolic Syndrome. Diet-Related Cancers and Other Diseases. Introduction to the Health Benefits of Mediterranean-Style Dietary Patterns. High Consumption of Monounsaturated Fat and Low Consumption of Saturated Fat. High Consumption of Fruits, Vegetables, and Legumes. High Consumption of Whole Grains. Moderate Consumption of Nuts and Seeds. Moderate Consumption of Fish and Seafood. Low Consumption of Meats and Low-to-Moderate Consumption of Poultry and Eggs. Low Consumption of Milk and Moderate Consumption of Cheese and Yogurt. Moderate Consumption of Alcohol. High Consumption of Herbs, Spices, and Garlic. Moving Toward a Mediterranean-Style Diet in Your Own Life. Eat like a Mediterranean: Enjoy Your Food, Be Healthy, and Feel Good. Research and Other Articles on Mediterranean Diets. Appendices. Index.