Interview : HERS Magazine, USA. February 2019, pag. 16-17
With so many different diets to choose from, it can be hard determining which diet would be best for your body and lifestyle. The Mediterranean diet could be a new diet to try if you are still struggling to make your lifestyle changes stick. The Lancet found that partecipants who tried the Mediterranean diet lost more weight than those on a low-fat diet. The 2019 is the year to try The Mamma Mia! Diet, the New Mediterranean diet, more suitable to the modern life.
What is the primary intent of the Mediterranean diet?
First and foremost, we have to remember that “Diet” comes from the Greek word meaning “lifestyle”, which includes not only what you eat, but also how the ingredients are cultivated, how you prepare the food, how and with whom you consume it, and so on. In The Mamma Mia! Diet, I’ve reinterpreted the Mediterranean lifestyle to help you make a series of healthy choices that will enhance your overall well-being, including controlling your weight, improving heart and brain health, reducing risk of cancer, diabetes and other illnesses. You will live longer, with better health and in better shape. Following the Mamma Mia! Diet you will lose some extra weight without giving up to good food and flavor: add some color and spices to your plate, such as for example turmeric and black pepper.
How do you meal prep on the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet is simple and based on fresh, seasonal and high quality ingredients. Food prep starts with smart food shopping. By stocking your shelves with only healthy and genuine ingredients, you remove the temptation to eat poorly. It will be easier to prepare healthy meals.
What do you eat for breakfast on the Mediterranean diet?
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating a healthy breakfast provides the right nutrients and fuel we need to get through our busy mornings. In fact, research has linked skipping breakfast to increased obesity, diabetes and coronary heart disease, and more generally to an unhealthy lifestyle and lower dietary quality. Your breakfast should contain some complex carbs, some protein and fruits.
For example you can eat 1-2 slices of whole grain bread with low sugar jam; or unsweetened cereal or oatmeal porridge with fruit, 2-3 nuts and a tablespoon of seeds. You can drink coffee, tea and some milk (cow or soy) or yogurt.
What’s the best way to transition to the Mediterranean diet?
It depends on what your starting point is. In any case you should cut down on refined sugar, salt, red meat, fat cheeses and unhealthy fats. For example refined sugar increases insulin resistance and simulates pseudo-pleasure that is addictive for your brain. Say goodbye to processed food, fast food and soft drinks. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, extra virgin olive oil, seeds and a few nuts. Top it off with a splash of red wine during your evening meal (if you like, but just one glass!). Last but not least stay physically active. The change will not be instant but by the time you get used to it, you will be thankful that you have a healthy figure and can look forward to more years of good health than your peers.
For people who don’t really cook, what can they do to ensure they stick to the diet?
The Mamma Mia! Diet is simple, you can whip up a delicious recipe with only a few ingredients in no time – Pasta, love and creativity, and you are good to go. You need a little bit of initiative and a few extra minutes. Remember, it’s not a waste of time, but an investment in your health!
What are some homemade snacks people can easily prepare?
Two light snacks throughout the day would include ½ cup of yogurt, a fruit or a few unsalted nuts. This keeps your appetite and weight gain under control.
Where is the best place to get meal ideas?
My blog of course!!!! Inspiration can come in unexpected ways, but I usually get my meal ideas when food shopping. There is nothing I love more than shopping at the farmers’ market in my own town of Como (Italy). There is nothing better than selecting fresh and seasonal produce, local cheese, organic meat and fresh fish, talking to the farmers and sampling their latest produce. It is a way to socialize and get new ideas too. If you don’t have the possibility to go to a farmers’ market, at least try to shop at the fresh produce section of the supermarket, concentrating on local and seasonal produce.
Why do you prefer this diet?
I have found that I feel better when following The Mamma Mia! Diet; I am in good shape and have more energy. My body needs good nutrients to function. When you learn to recognize the taste and benefits of good food you cannot go back junk food anymore.
What are some of its greatest benefits?
Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower incidence of mortality from all causes, and it is also related to a lower incidence of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why The Mamma Mia! Diet is superior to other diets?
The Mamma Mia! Diet reflects the changes in the world. Many people lives by themselves and don’t really have time for cooking and are exposed to more processed food and do less manual work. Following this diet you will start thinking differently about food and life habits. Food isn’t just something that feeds, fuels and nourishes. It can be a medicine for your body, mind and soul. You will be encouraged to spend more time in nature, be more physically active, get night’s sleep, and come together to bond over a home-cooked healthy meal. These healthy habits can be maintained throughout your life.
Last but not least next year I will organize an unique and luxury retreat at Lake Como based on the New Mediterranean diet – The Mamma Mia! Diet. Check my post Lake Como Luxury Retreat. – Paola
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