As a Greek, I (Litsa) have always equated the Mediterranean Diet as one with fewer calories compared to the southern foods in West Tennessee where I grew up and currently live. The vegetable medleys of Mediterranean cuisine remind me of clean eating—a slim-line approach to maintaining your figure and/or taking in less calories. However, fewer hot flashes!?!
Eating Well‘s spring issue (2014) stated, “The Mediterranean diet–which includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and even a daily glass of red wine–is associated with healthier hearts and slimmer waists. Additionally, new research shows that menopausal women who eat a Mediterranean-style diet are about 20 percent less likely to report hot flashes and night sweats. In contrast, women eating a high-fat, high-sugar diet are more likely to experience those symptoms. Researchers believe that the high fiber content of a Mediterranean diet may stabilize estrogen levels, which in turn can lessen symptoms. The diet also helps keep blood sugar in an optimal range, which may be a factor in relieving menopause discomfort as well.”
Thus, I concluded that eating well now (pre-menopausal) will lead me to eating well later (menopausal). What we eat really does matter—and of course, good foods are always better than “junky-junk-junk” as my daughter and I label ‘fatty sugar, unhealthy foods’!?!
Definitely, food for thought!?!
Credit to Eating Well for Research Findings/Report
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