That's right, Mediterranean cultures do traditionally consume a higher percentage of their calories from fat compared to Asian cultures. However, The types of fat consumed throughout the Mediterranean and Asia are very similar, coming mainly from plant and fish sources which are very low in saturated fat. So, although the amount of fat may vary, the traditional diets of the Mediterranean and Asia are low saturated fat diets (as well as low trans fat diets). And of course there are many other similarities between traditional Mediterranean and Asian diets including high consumption of plant foods such as vegetables, grains, fruits and legumes; regular consumption of fish; alcohol consumed regularly in moderation; and red meat consumed rarely.

© 2004 - 2008 MEDITERRASIAN.COM