Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is presented as delivering a broad micronutrient spectrum. Phytoestrogen-rich foods can reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness during menopause. One study found a 20% reduction in vasomotor symptoms among women following the Mediterranean diet. The article argues that the traditional Cretan pattern differs substantially from the expert-panel version of the Mediterranean diet. The traditional Cretan Mediterranean diet is presented as higher in fat and lower in carbohydrates than the USDA-promoted Mediterranean pattern. The article states that institutional descriptions emphasize grains and vegetables while downplaying animal foods. The Mediterranean diet is officially characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and olive oil, with limited animal foods and sweets. A 2017 study associated Mediterranean diet adherence with lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein in menopausal women. The article argues that traditional Mediterranean eating outperforms Western diets because it is based on real, minimally processed foods. The Mediterranean diet's phytonutrients are said to create anti-inflammatory and antioxidan…