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Mediterranean food is becoming ever more popular in the U.S. due to its perceived health benefits, variety of fresh ingredients, and unique blend of flavors. So, just what is Mediterranean food? It is an amalgamation of the fresh ingredients and intense flavors of the cuisines in countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, including Israel, Italy, France, Greece, Lebanon, Morocco, Spain, and 14 other countries throughout northern Africa, Europe and the Middle East. When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, there are a variety of healthy food choices available to help you eat better as a part of a healthy lifestyle.

Health Benefits

For over half a century, consuming Mediterranean food has been linked to longer lifespans and a reduced risk of certain diseases. The first documented study of the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet dates back to the 1940s, when Ancel Keys evaluated the diet and lifestyle of the residents of seven countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. The study revealed that these people enjoyed better health and longer lifespans than people living in western countries. (Source: http://www.epi.umn.edu/cvdepi/study-synopsis/seven-countries-study/). More recently, a 2008 study which was published in the British Medical Journal linked regular consumption of Mediterranean food with reduced rates of Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease. (Source: http://www.bmj.com/content/337/bmj.a1344).

Fresh, Whole Ingredients

It is suspected that the Mediterranean diet is so healthy because of its wide variety of fresh, whole ingredients. People in the region eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil; consume only a moderate amount of dairy products, poultry and fish in small portions; and rarely eat red meat and unhealthy animal fats, such as butter. In addition, refined sugars and processed foods are almost never consumed.

Intense Flavors

Mediterranean cuisine proves that healthy food does not have to taste boring and bland. Prepared with a wide assortment of fresh herbs and exotic spices, the food of the Mediterranean region is absolutely packed with flavor.

All of the dishes at Pita Jungle are prepared from scratch every day, using only fresh, whole foods. The popular restaurant offers a wide selection of nutritious Mediterranean dishes to help customers stay fit and healthy. Come discover the “The Art of Eating Healthy®” at a Pita Jungle near you today!