People suffering from high pressure and cardiovascular disease may find the Mediterranean diet convenient.
Traditional Mediterranean diet is based mainly on plant source foods such as a local grown fruits and vegetables, healthy grains (mostly whole), healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil; beans, legumes, local herbs and spices.
The Mediterranean diet emphasize on physical activity and enjoying meals with family and friends. (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2013)
Grains should be eaten daily as a main dish according to the Mediterranean diet. Todays trend to avoid all kind of carbohydrates to prevent disease or weight gain is not the right way. Whole-grains are beneficial for human health because of balanced amount of nutrients and antinutrients. Whole-grains are rich source of complex carbohydrates, magnesium, potassium and other minerals; vitamins, phytochemicals and other substances essential for human body. (Len Marquart, Joanne L. Slavin, R. Gary Fulcher, 2002) …show more content…
Grains and grain products in the Mediterranean diet include: barley, buckwheat, bulgur, farro, millet, oats, polenta, rice, wheat berries, breads, couscous, and pastas.
They are rich in health protective chemical compounds which may have positive effects against several disease such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, cancer and diabetes. The fiber found in grains may protect you against digestive cancer more than other types of fiber. Bulgur wheat contains the highest amount of fiber, 2.9g per 16 grams (1 serving). (Wholegraincouncil, no