The Mediterranean heart diet Why it works, with recipes to get you started

Mediterranean food is delicious, easy, relatively inexpensive and surprise! healthy. For 50 years, doctors have observed that Mediterranean people are much less likely than those in more industrialized countries to suffer heart disease or strokes. The Mediterranean Heart Diet: Why It Works, with Recipes to Get You Started, by Helen V. Fisher (Posh Pancakes and Fancy Fritters) with Cynthia Thomson, Ph.D., R.D., attributes the region's health to lower saturated-fat consumption and plenty of whole grains, and offer easy recipes like Polenta with Tomato and Fontina. Fisher and Thomson also advocate the Mediterranean lifestyle: eating at least one meal a day with companions and more physical activity. Sadly, they neglect to recommend lolling on the beach ogling attractive Mediterraneans. (July) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

The Mediterranean diet is certainly one of the better nutritional gimmicks embraced by the American public. Fisher explains the medical rationale behind this popular diet and provides details on the diet and exercise combination, which has been proven to be healthier than the American way of life. Mediterranean fare is highlighted through the use of a modified food pyramid that emphasizes breads, pasta, rice, and whole-grain foods. Phytochemicals, the foods in which they are contained, and their potential benefits are discussed. Over 140 recipes, including appetizers, soups, salads, grains, seafood, meats, vegetable, breads, and desserts, are simple and appealing. A good, basic book for those collections needing information on the subject. Janet M. Schneider, James A. Haley Veterans' Hosp. Lib., Tampa, FL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.