For some reason, many people today see the Mediterranean diet as an elite way of eating that's far too expensive to enjoy on a daily basis. In fact, the Mediterranean diet is an affordable way to eat, not to mention it's great for the environment. Use this practical advice to revitalize the spirit of the Mediterranean diet in your own life:
- Eat more plants and less meat. If you do eat meat, eat smaller amounts of higher quality meat, raised in a sustainable, humane manner.
- Consult seafood guides, like the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch Guide, to be sure you're purchasing and eating sustainable fish and seafood.
- Explore legumes and pulses, the protein backbone of most sustainable diets.
- Cook whole foods as much as you can, with olive oil as your principal fat.
- Add herbs and spices for flavor, in contrast to the artificial flavors and added sugar used to flavor processed foods.
- Aim to reduce food waste by freezing, sharing and/or repurposing leftovers into another meal.
- When possible, support local farms and farmers to create a vibrant local food system and sense of community.
- Think about food as fuel for your body. "Higher octane" food can produce better outcomes.
- Keep packaging and food waste to a minimum, and compost or recycle as much as you can.
Comments