The Mesopotamia Food Diet

The Mesopotamia Food Diet
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According to British Museum records, the people of Mesopotamia began in approximately 3100 B.C. to record their crops. One of the most important crops was barley, which was grown in southern Mesopotamia. Mesopotamia, which was in the area now controlled by Iraq, was developed on agriculture and transitioned from migrant hunter gatherers to sedentary farmers who could stockpile grain for future use.

History

Mesopotamia thrived on the supply of foods harvested by the fertile soil between the Euphrates and the Tigris rivers. According to History-world.org, Mesopotamia was the culture that began cultivation of wild wheat and barley in 9000 B.C.

Food

To follow a Mesopotamian diet, your meat should come from free range and wild game such as sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, fish and shellfish. Dairy products from these animals include milk and cheeses. Also, fowl such as small birds can be eaten. Your vegetables should consist of onions, garlic, peas and lentils. Fruits you can find are dates, pomegranates, olives and figs. Cereals consist of grains and porridge, and the grains will make up the flour and various kinds of bread on your daily plate.

Details

Mesopotamian diets normally consisted of two meals a day. Most people ate unleavened bread and drank beer. Cow's milk was also consumed, but it would turn sour in the hot climate. Most people would eat cooked vegetable stews. Fish was an important source of protein. Fruits included grapes, figs, mulberries, and pomegranates.

Modify

Make your diet work naturally for you by incorporating the dietary habits of your ancestors. Consume foods that are natural and not manufactured.

Significance

The people of Mesopotamia hunted their land, consuming natural and unprocessed food. The Mesopotamian diet provided a diet of lean protein that was high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Although it is impossible to replicate all the living conditions today, these general characteristics should serve as a template to the modern Mesopotamia diet.

References

Article reviewed by Kirk Ericson Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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