Wednesday, August 12

Mediterranean Diet & Alzheimer's


There have been trial studies done that show, eating a Mediterranean Diet and Exercise combined, lower the risk of Alzheimer's.

In a previous blog I discussed in detail the Mediterranean Diet. However, in a nutshell it's a lifestyle approach to healthy eating that includes a balanced variety of foods and daily exercise.

The main ingredients of the Mediterranean Diet include:

- Eating abundant amounts of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables

- Enjoying moderate portions of cheese and yogurt

- Choosing healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, avocados, and canola oil

- Drinking wine in moderation, usually with meals, if okay to do so

- Consuming fish and seafood regularly

- Eating small amounts of red meat only few times per month

- Being physically active daily

Most of us know someone who has Alzheimer's or have friends whose parents or family members have been diagnosed with it. If you could know ahead that eating a healthy diet (Mediterranean) and exercise could possibly prevent you from getting this disease wouldn't you make the effort to follow it?

Here is the link to the article that I read that I think you will find interesting. Please share this with others.

However, if someone you love has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and you are unsure how to care for them please check out this site, that offers in-home assessments for those with dementia-related illnesses and solutions for aging-in-place.


Remember, exercise makes you feel great and eating a Mediterranean Diet nourishes your body. The two combined will do wonders for you and those you love, plus ward off many diseases.

To learn how to cook the Mediterranean way, contact me to schedule your Mediterranean Culinary Class. In the meantime, to help you get started, try this great summer chilled soup recipe.

Tomato Gazpacho
Serves 4

This light, no-cook soup is a great base for endless possibilities. Try it with croutons, chopped vegetables or cooked shrimp.

Ingredients
1 pound tomatoes, skinned
1/2 onion, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons sherry wine vinegar
2 tablespoons tomato puree
2 cups tomato juice
1/2 cucumber, peeled and chopped
1/2 green pepper, seeded and chopped
salt and pepper to taste

Preparation
Place the tomatoes, onion, oil, vinegar and tomato puree in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a bowl and stir in tomato juice, cucumber, green pepper, salt and pepper. Chill thoroughly before serving.