The Mediterranean Diet was born from a nutritional model first theorized by physiologist Ancel Keys who studied its characteristics by observing the eating habits of the inhabitants of Cilento. It was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013 with the following motivation: “A set of skills, knowledge, practices and traditions ranging from the landscape to the table”.
The Mediterranean Diet is particularly distinguished by its richness in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, fish and unsaturated fats such as olive oil. It traditionally involves a low intake of meat and dairy products and has, over time, become synonymous with good health and the prevention of heart disease.
Following the Mediterranean Diet means a wide variety of starchy foods, such as bread and pasta, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, incorporating fish into the diet while reducing meat consumption and favoring products based on vegetable oils, particularly, extra virgin olive oil.
Fun fact
To delve deeper into the Mediterranean Diet and uncover its many secrets, a visit to the Museum of the Mediterranean Diet in Pioppi is highly recommended.
