The Mediterranean diet today.

Whereas we’re all familiar with the basis of the Mediterranean diet popularized over half a century ago—one full of fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean meats, olive oil, and wine—how does it apply to our modern day to day living?

Yes, the Mediterranean diet was once incredibly healthy, but when it was first studied as a health phenomenon (Seven Countries Study by Ancel Keys) people lived very differently than we do now. They had less money to buy foods outside of what was locally available, they were pious and recognized religious fasting days therefore eating less meat, and there were far fewer office jobs that encouraged a sedentary lifestyle. Yet, somehow, there are regions bordering the Mediterranean (and other communities throughout the world) that still maintain health and longevity well into the 21st century.

I think right now Mediterranean diet has become a blanket statement for all things deemed healthy. I find a lot of inconsistencies between what I study in articles and books and what this traditional UNESCO recognized diet is actually about. I will delve into this here and on my Substack, where my goal is to draw parallels between how things were in the past and how to apply these practices to our busy lives, especially in a North American city.

Parts of the Mediterranean lifestyle that I believe need to be looked at closely are: daily activity versus intentional exercise blocks, designated meal times instead of eating throughout the day, drinking customs, sleep habits, work-life balance, community involvement, and reducing stress through everyday actions and mindset. There are some aspects that are important to recognize but create challenges for those living in different climates. Sunshine and time outdoors are crucial but difficult to incorporate if you winter in Canada or the upper Uniter States. Eating healthy and seasonally can also have its obstacles if you don’t have access to fresh produce or seafood. And if you live in rural North America, trying to incorporate walking into your day instead of relying on driving has its setbacks. 

Despite these challenges, it’s possible to adapt our habits to include key components from the traditional Mediterranean lifestyle. We can use so many elements of modern living as tools for our health. Being able to choose produce from around the world, not just what is in season where we are, can be overwhelming but overall an advantage to adding necessary nutrients to our diet year-round. Working from home has stripped our lives from essential social interactions, but if we use this new reality to our benefit we can be enjoying longer lunches with our families or neighbours, eating home-cooked real food, instead of rushing through an overpriced takeout meal in front of a screen. 

To get back to the question “How does the Mediterranean diet apply to our modern day to day lives?”, I think the answer is to take small, intentional steps that change our way of eating, moving, and thinking for the better. As a Holistic Nutritionist I love that diet is probably the easiest part of your life to take ownership of and make an impactful change. I believe everyone can eat well regardless of location, age, career, or income. In fact, the beauty of the Mediterranean lifestyle is in its simplicity. So many celebrated dishes we’ll look at were created by frugal means and have a short ingredient list. Mediterranean cooking is a way to incorporate macro and micro nutrients, beautiful flavour and presentation, all while shifting to a healthier life. 

What I share is meant to help you feel your best, look strong and confident, and age gracefully by reducing your risk of common diseases. We will focus on overall health and wellbeing while enjoying life. Achieving your fitness goals is a natural result of daily practices and dietary choices that celebrate eating and cooking nutritious, affordable meals reminiscent of a summer holiday.

Thank you for reading and I look forward to sharing this journey with you.