1. You're Such a Fruitcake
An apple a day, as well as a peach, banana and pear, all do seem to keep the doctor away. Fruit is an important component of the Mediterranean diet. This particular food pyramid is one of the most nutritious and healthful eating plans in the world. The Mediterranean diet focuses on fruits and vegetables, seafood, nuts and olive oil. Scientists say it is extremely beneficial to people looking to improve their heart health. Many fruits are loaded with the antioxidant Vitamin C, and all fruits have fiber, as well as other vitamins and important nutrients. There is a link that proves high fruit consumption lowers the risk of some cancers.
2. First Thing in the Morning
Begin incorporating more fruit into your Mediterranean diet plan by enjoying it at breakfast. Add sliced bananas or strawberries to your cereal. Enjoy it mixed with yogurt. Add dried fruit to oatmeal and other hot, cooked cereals. Melons are delicious on hot summer mornings. If you hate the thought of peeling and slicing, most groceries now offer fruits conveniently sliced and chopped for you. It may cost a little more, but it's worth it if you start eating more fruit.
3. Snack on Fruit
Have fruit for a quick snack. Keep a platter of red and green grapes on the counter, and watch them disappear as family members grab a few every time they walk out the door. Freeze watermelon balls for a hot summer day. Wedge oranges for your child's sports team. Dried apricots make a nice addition to a school lunch. Jazz up trail mix with raisins and other dried fruits.
4. Get Sneaky
It's simple to sneak fruits into your meals. Dried cranberries give a nice zip to green salads and go especially well with blue cheese dressing. Peaches are a nice accompaniment to ham. Baked apples stuffed with raisins are a great side dish. On Thanksgiving, try basting your turkey with orange juice instead of butter.
5. Sugar, Sugar
People in the Mediterranean region rarely have a high calorie, fat-laden dessert to top off their meal. Instead, they reach for a delicious piece of fresh fruit. It satisfies that momentary craving for something sweet after dinner, and it's a lot better for you than double chocolate cheesecake. If you do want a cake or pie, opt for fruit ones. Imagine a homemade apple pie or a blackberry cobbler fresh from the oven. Grilled fruit is a delicious treat at the end of a summertime meal.
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