Mediteranean Diet

Welcome to Kozat Foods

 

A company dedicated to supplying delicious healthy Mediterranean foods for the world since 1929!  We are a family owed business that has been operating for three generations.  Our goal is to supply healthy, delicious, affordable Mediterranean foods with the highest quality possible.

 

There have been countless foods and diets introduced all over the world for decades claiming different positive results but one diet remains undeniable and dominate, the Mediterranean diet.

 

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

 

To start with, on average those who live in the Mediterranean region of the world are known for living a longer and healthier life than those in other regions throughout the world.  Many experts contribute this to what is on their plates which are the variety of Mediterranean foods.

 

Year after year, the Mediterranean diet is ranked as one of the top diets by a panel of health experts at U.S. New and the World Report.  These annual reports show an overwhelming amount of research that leads to sustainable weight loss, improved brain function and heart health, and help in reducing chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer.

 

The Mediterranean Diet approach

 

Is focused on consuming many vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean meats that offer antioxidants and unsaturated fats like olive oil instead of butter.  Those who follow this diet eat a variety of grains such as farro or bulgar, an abundance of legumes, nuts and seeds as well as fish with plenty of omega 3’s.  The diet also recommends restricting process foods, red meats and sugary deserts.

 

There is evidence that those who follow a Mediterranean Diet benefit from better cognitive function as they age.  Mainly contributed to eating foods that reduce inflammation that stops the production of chemicals in the body that contribute to cognitive decline.  The diet also is known to prevent diabetes. It is no surprise that the Greek island Ikaria is one of the five well known “blue zone regions” in the world, a place where people live the longest.

 

Why is this diet so successful? 

 

It is thought that lifestyle versus diet plays a role.  Many other diets are hard and extreme and hard to stick with over time.  However, the Mediterranean diet is a lifestyle with simple foods.  The Mediterranean lifestyle does not focus on counting calories or restrictions.  Rather it encourages on filling up with nutrient dense whole foods and taking the time to enjoy every bit.  People are successful at weight management and holding off chronic disease.  Many on the diet say it’s flexibility allows them to focus on eating better and not return to their old foods or habits.

 

Unlike other trendy diets, the Mediterranean diet has years of scientific studies that back up the benefits of the diet.

 

Heart Health

 

The Mediterranean diet is known to protect your heart.  Studies show lower risks of heart disease, stroke and heart failure.  Experts contribute these positive outcomes from the abundance of rich whole foods that contain antioxidants from vegetables, fiber found in whole grains and unsaturated fats in fish, nuts and olive oil.

 

Lower Rates of Cancer

 

Studies has shown that those who follow a Mediterranean diet have much lower rates of cancer.  These foods decrease the level of inflammatory foods that can lead to cancer.

 

Weight Loss

 

Several studies have shown that eating a consistent Mediterranean diet for long periods of time can lead to needed weight loss and have lower levels of weight gain.

 

Type 2 Diabetes

 

The Mediterranean diet was associated with better glycemic control.  Researchers state that eating high levels of foods with antioxidants such as vegetables, nuts, fruits and whole grains can reduce insulin sensitivity and lower type 2 diabetes.

 

Brain Function

 

Scientists confirmed that polyphenols may be beneficial for brain health.  This diet can lead to reduction in cognitive decline as one ages and decreases the risk of dementia.

 

 

 

Here at Kozat Foods we offer a variety of healthy Mediterranean foods such as Kalamata Olives, Greek Pepperoncini, Roasted Eggplant Spread, Roasted Red Peppers and much more that can support this healthy diet and lifestyle!