Dr. Ancel Keys, 100, Promoter of Mediterranean Diet, Dies
The double PhD was responsible for K-rations used by our military, as well as doing ground breaking work in the benefits of a Mediterrean Diet. The Seven Countries study revealed that those in the US and Finland, who had higher fat and meat consumption were 10 times as likely to suffer heart attacks. Similar findings were replicated by another study in 2003 published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Such a nutritious diet is the common denominator of these five longevity “hot spots” where the highest percentages of centenarians live: Okinawa, Japan; Bama, China; Campodimele, Italy; Hunza, Pakistan; and Symi, Greece.
So, the more the reason to extol the benefits of a Mediterranean diet — which is high in vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish and olive oil. Contrast this with the Western diet, heavy on processed meats, red meat, refined grains and high-fat dairy.
- Try extra virgin olive oil, be mindful that just 2 teaspoons packs in 240 calories.
- Unrefined cereals, fruits, vegetables,
- A moderate consumption of dairy (mostly as cheese and yogurt)
- Moderate to high consumption of fish (avoid large fish as they harbor more environmental toxins from the food chain)
- 2 glasses of red wine with 6 glasses of water a day
- Low consumption of meat and meat products
The key is moderation. Do yourself a favor and buy a copy of Ancel Keys book "Eat Well and Stay Well" for less than $5 online at Amazon.com. The quick recipes, with the fresh ingredients will make for proven cost-effective alternatives to unhealthy junk and fast food.
