William Neuman talks about how the F.D.A. and food companies make labels for serving sizes that bear little reality to the way people eat.

You may also want to read about serving sizes and food labeling in a good article in the New York Times.

Be Good To Yourself

The Mediterranean Diet is a way of life that has been developed over thousands of years and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. It advocates eating less red meat, but not giving it up, and eating more natural foods.

This is our 10 point outline of a typical Mediterranean Diet:

1. Plenty of olive oil as the main source of added fat.
2. Plenty of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, legumes and nuts.
3. Plenty of bread and whole grain foods including pasta and rice.
4. Plenty of fish and seafood.
5. Moderate amounts of dairy products mainly yogurt and cheese, plus eggs.
6. Red meat should be consumed in moderation.
7. Sweets, cakes and dairy desserts should be consumed only occasionally.
8. Plenty of water as the main daily beverage.
9. Daily dose of red wine which should be taken in moderation and with meals.
10. Be physically active every day. This is as important as eating well.

The primary active factors of the Mediterranean Diet are foods rich in natural ingredients that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in our bodies. It is these form factors that prevent diseases, cancers, depression, mental disorders and high blood pressure from affecting our health. To get the most benefit from the nutrients you have to have a varied mix of foods and prepare them in the right way, The Mediterranean Diet way. And no, supplements can't mimic natures own medicine.