Healthy Habits: Mediterranean Living

As a BzzAgent I periodically get to try out new products. The most recent was Filippo Berio Olive Oil. Extra virgin olive oil has become one of the new healthy foods to try, and you can learn a lot about it's benefits at the "Your Health" section on filippoberio.com.

Olive oil is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cooking, and there are easy steps you can follow to capture the ideas of Mediterranean living. Studies show that people in this region have low rates of chronic diseases and high adult life expectancy.
1) Replace butter, margarine, and other oils with olive oil.
2) Snack on nuts, seeds and fruit, rather than processed snack foods.
3) Include a generous variety of locally-grown, seasonal produce like leafy-greens daily.
4) Choose bread, pasta, rice and other whole grains.
5) Eat at least a few vegetarian meals each week.
6) Serve dishes that include legumes like beans and lentils.
7) Try fish, poultry, beans, nuts and eggs as an alternative to red meat.
8) Limit red meat to small occasional servings.
9) If you drink alcohol, include no more than a glass or two with meals.
10) Enjoy fresh fruit for dessert.
11) Set aside enough time to savor and enjoy each and every bite.
12) Integrate physical activity into everyday habits to promote a healthy weight, fitness and sense of well-being.
(Source: Oldways Preservation Trust)

Extra virgin olive oil is considered a "healthy fat" because it contains no trans fats and is high in monounsaturated fat. It's a versatile oil that can be used as the fat in a wide variety of dishes while cooking. It can also be used as a condiment, marinade, or salad dressing. Filippo Berio has been making olive oil for 150 years that stay true to classic Italian flavor.

Disclosure: I received Filippo Berio through a BzzAgent program to facilitate this post.