Bill Bradley Luncheon A Success!

Thank you to the 35 people who turned out to see nutritionist Bill Bradley lecture on the Mediterranean diet while preparing a fabulous meal for everyone to enjoy together. Bill regaled us with stories of his travels to Crete, and how people on Crete eat a relatively high-fat diet, but only using high-quality monounsaturated fats like olive oil. They also eat very little meat, lots of fresh vegetables, and little refined sugars. Subsequently, many Cretan individuals live well beyond their 100th year!

In terms of the luncheon, the menu of the day included:

• Black Bean Stew with turkey kielbasa
• Vegan Black Bean Stew
• Greek Salad with feta cheese, olives and all organic veggies
• Fresh local whole grain bread (dipped in olive oil imported from Crete)
• Baklava (from Amanouz Cafe in Northampton)

Everyone seemed very pleased with both the lecture and the luncheon, and many questions were asked (and answered). Bill is a an excellent presenter, and we are very happy that he was able to come share his expertise with us.


So, here are some guidelines to eating Mediterranean style:

• The majority of food is unprocessed.
• Fruits or vegetables are eaten in large quantity at every meal.
• Whole grains are emphasized.
• Beans, nuts and seeds are major sources of protein.
• Lean red meat is eaten no more than once per week.
• Choose lean meats and limit serving sizes to 3 ounces (like a deck of cards).
• Fat sources are mainly monounsaturated.
• Diet is high in Omega-3 fatty acids (ie: fish, flax oil).
• Low-fat cheese and yogurt are used in moderate amounts.
• If alcohol is consumed, it is at mealtime and in moderation.
• Desserts are mostly fruit based.
• Activity is included daily with a combinatuion of cardiovascular and weight bearing exercise.

Stay tuned for more posts about the Mediterranean diet and lifetsyle, including recipes!

Feel free to visit Bill's website, Bradley Presents!