The Joy of Eating Outdoors

I like to eat Mediterranean style food, especially in the summer when there is plenty of available fresh produce and some fantastic ingredients to get my hands on.

People living in the Mediterranean appear to have reduced cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and have better cardiovascular health. Sure, we can attribute this to a diet rich in vegetables, cereals and beans and healthy fats (notably olive oil) and moderate amounts of fish, meat, and dairy products. The Mediterranean Diet has a lot to offer regarding health, but it would be wrong to look purely at the ingredients eaten by people living in these regions. Their eating habits and behaviours and their love of food (and joy they get from eating it!) should be recognized.

With friends like these...

There are tendencies to eat in groups or together as a family which introduces a more social aspect to eating, something we've lost here in the UK (no sad desk sandwiches or TV dinners). An emphasis on sharing and having small plates rather than one plate piled high with food may contribute to improved feelings of satiety and fullness. There is a real celebratory attitude towards food and pride for produce and tradition. We should take these factors into consideration when discussing the health benefits of eating the Mediterranean way.

Fresh seafood at a Paleokastritsa taverna

Sharing plates in Corfu...Yum!

Growing up, I was fortunate to live in a country home with a garden and terrace where we would grab every opportunity to eat outside. My extended French family and friends would do the same, and I could regularly experience the joys of eating and socialising outdoors. Bowls of food would get passed around, wine would flow, stories would get told. It was a wonderful time and these occasions are my favourite memories of the seemingly endless summers growing up.

Kingly Court in Soho London has plenty of outdoor seating

I can appreciate that I've lived a privileged life, however, and that he opportunities I had were not universal. But there are so many ways to enjoy eating alfresco, even in the city. Take a picnic to the park, have a BBQ in the garden, or pick a restaurant with outdoor seating. Whatever it is, get out there and do it. Food just seems to taste so much better when enjoyed this way and you'll feel better for it too. It's no wonder the Mediterranean's have better health when they so much joy from eating! 

This weekend...heaven!