The Mediterranean diet is not a diet. In fact, it’s a way of eating that’s good for your heart and blood pressure, can help you stay at a healthy weight, and may even reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer. Nearly two-thirds of heart disease and stroke deaths in North America are from cardiovascular diseases. But you can help protect your heart by eating a Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet has also been linked with a reduced risk of stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and macular degeneration ? all serious health problems. Researchers have found that the people who live in the countries where the Mediterranean diet originated (Greece, Italy, Spain and others) tend to have longer life expectancies than people living in other parts of Europe. No matter what health concerns are top of mind for you–diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels–you can benefit from this style of eating. The Mediterranean diet focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, olive oil and herbs and spices. The key is to focus on the foods that play a role in lowering your risk of coronary artery disease (the clogging of blood vessels by plaque), stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and certain types of cancers. This book covers ? Breakfast recipes ? Appetizers and snacks ? Main dish ? Vegetables and side dishes ? Soup and stew recipes And much more The Mediterranean diet is rich in fiber along with healthy fats–the very combination that helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Fiber helps absorb water and move it through your digestive system quickly; fiber has also been linked to lower cholesterol levels because it reduces the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs from food. Healthy fats found in olive oil may help keep your arteries clear and reduce your blood pressure as well.