Mediterranean Lifestyle: More Than a Diet, A Way of Living (and Thriving)

Abstract

Although the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) may appear simple and locally inspired based on the provided definitions, mounting evidence reveals that adopting a dietary pattern aligned with MedDiet principles can yield numerous health benefits. Also, the MedDiet stands as the gold standard in preventive medicine, so it is not a simplistic diet centered around specific ingredients or cooking methods; instead, it emerges from a distinctive way of life (lifestyle) inherent to the Mediterranean region. This lifestyle encapsulates essential components of a balanced diet and life, including frugality and moderation in food consumption, the utilization of seasonal and traditional products, a focus on locally sourced, eco-friendly, and biodiverse items, personal engagement in culinary preparation, the emphasis on conviviality and social activities during meal consumption, regular engagement in physical activity, adequate hydration, and sufficient rest. In this review, we will establish the interconnections and links between the various aspects of the Mediterranean diet, how these pillars reflect the Mediterranean region's distinctive lifestyle, and how each element is a necessary part of the others. Finally, the seamless integration of social involvement, sufficient rest, regular physical exercise, and diet will be explored to provide a holistic view of the Mediterranean lifestyle and its inherent harmony.

Morzeddhu: A Unique Example of a Traditional and Sustainable Typical Dish from Catanzaro

“…4 Data as published by Osteria Fumetti [32]. 5 Data as published by Società Agricola Maso dello Speck SRL [33].…”

“…In this context, several centuries ago, the citizens of Catanzaro developed a unique dish, mostly based on often wasted parts of ruminants, which included many flavors and tastes belonging to a Mediterranean diet [ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ]. It has never been reported at an international level in scientific publications and deserves to be studied thoroughly, starting from a sustainability point of view and some other nutrition and nutraceutical aspects.…”