The history of the Mediterranean, along with its traditional cuisine, is linked to its wine which began its initial cultivation between 3000 BC and 2000 BC when viticulture emerged in force in the areas of Asia Minor, Crete, Greece and the Cyclades of the Aegean Sea. Today, the most prominent wine producing countries (by volume) in the Med region are France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece.

Throughout this region, wine is drunk in moderation and usually taken with meals. For men, moderation translates to a couple of glasses per day and for women, one glass per day. Wine, most notably red wine, contains an immense assortment of plant compounds with health promoting qualities called phytonutrients. Among them, polyphenols, are considered powerful antioxidants, which were shown to have beneficial cardiovascular effects, as well as the ability of lowering blood fats and cholesterol levels. In addition, consuming red wine (in moderation) was found to offer cancer-preventive value. White wine, on the other hand, does not provide nearly as much of the phytonutrients as occur in red wine.

For additional information including details on the wines of each country in the Med region, go to [http://themediterraneandietsite.com/the-wine-cellar].

Mastiha (mastic gum) - another natural wonder from the Aegean region



Mastiha or Mastika (Greek for "to chew, to grind the teeth"), is originally a liquor seasoned with mastic, a resin gathered from the mastic tree, a small evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region and cultivated on the Aegean island of Chios.
Scientific research has shown that this resin has anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities. It has been documented from antiquity for its health benefits, its use as the first natural chewing gum and as a cooking spice. Today, it is still chewed as well as used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and in the culinary world. Chios Mastiha contributes to a healthy gastrointestinal system and has beneficial effects for both oral hygiene and skin care.

For much more information on the Med diet, cuisine and lifestyle, visit [http://www.themediterraneandietsite.com].