MEDITERRANEAN LONGEVITY SECRETS

Submitted by La Quinta Olive Oil Company

California enjoys a Mediterranean climate and an abundance of fresh fish and produce, so the Mediterranean diet is a natural choice for healthy living. The eating habits of Italy and Greece reveal some of the most flavorful secrets of longevity. 

The Mediterranean diet is high in the consumption of olive oil, legumes, fish, unrefined cereals, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, a moderate amount of dairy, wine, chicken and meat and minimal sugar, fat and refined carbohydrates. This helps to reduce the risks of cardiovasculardisease and type 2 diabetes. At the same time, Italian and Greek cuisine are among the most celebrated and delicious in the world.

A key to the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet is how the food is prepared. Cooking with olive oil instead of butter or fattier oils and seasoning with garlic and fresh herbs instead of too much salt or sugar supports health in ways that are acknowledged by the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association.

Olive oil is rich in vitamins K and E and is free of cholesterol and carbohydrates. Extra Virgin Olive Oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. It is important to note that many of the health benefits of cooking with olive oil, which also include weight loss, prevention of gall stones, delayed aging, anti-cancer potential and lustrous skin, come from regular use of high-quality olive oil*.

To learn more about olive oil, creative cooking ideas, and to sample over 30 flavored olive oils and varietals from Italy, Greece, Spain, Chile, Tunisia and California visit La Quinta Olive Oil Company. Enjoy pairing the oils with 18-year old balsamics to enhance salads and marinades or for dipping and drizzling! New avocado and sesame oils have just arrived, too.

*www.organicfacts.net

La Quinta Olive Oil Company   78075 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, CA    760-777-9992