It’s almost the New Year and what better way to start it, than with your resolutions for a healthier diet.

Greek food is well known for both the delicious nature of its dishes and for being a very healthy diet for humankind.

With a diet that is balanced in whole grains, fish, vegetables, and fruits, it’s clear to see why the Greek diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world. We

What is the Greek diet?

The Greek diet is rich in fresh, whole foods including olive oil, nuts, seeds, veggies, fruit, and fish. The consumption of red meat is relatively low in comparison to other diets. A typical Greek diet is well known to contain fewer processed foods than any other diet. In Greek cuisine the foods that are consumed are much more closer to nature, often containing little to no high fructose corn syrup which is linked to increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The food also tends not to be genetically modified (GMO) or artificial as a whole and raw ingredients are generally used.

The Health Benefits

Olive Oil

As an integral part of the local culture, the Mediterranean diet is mostly based on cooking at home using fresh local ingredients.

Olive trees, vineyards, and wheat is widely available and have always been part of the Mediterranean region. Olive oil is heavily used for cooking and baking. It is one of the main sources of fat in the diet. Despite common beliefs, high-quality extra-virgin olive oil has a high smoke point because of its lower free fatty acid content.

Olive oil in moderate amounts is rich in carotenoids and polyphenols. It contains modest amounts of vitamin E  and vitamin K which are vital to maintaining good health. Plus with the added benefit of being rich in antioxidants, it may reduce your risk of chronic diseases and as well as fight inflammation.

Dolmades

Dolmades are stuffed grapes leaves that are typically stuffed with rice, herbs, and occasionally meat. They can be served as part of the main dish or enjoyed as a starter. Depending on the content inside their fat and calorie contents can vary slightly.

The grape leaves are both low in calories and high in fiber. You will find that they also contain high amounts of vitamin A and vitamin K.

Additionally, grape leaves may improve blood circulation in people with chronic venous insufficiency, which is a condition in which blood has a hard time circulating through the veins

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is another traditional and highly popular dip / spread that is used in Greek cooking. With a very creamy consistency, it’s pretty low in calories, with as little as 35 calories in two tablespoons.

Tzatziki is made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and olive oil. Greek yogurt is creamier and thicker than regular yogurt. The reason is that the yogurt has been strained to remove the liquid whey.

Historically, Greeks strained the yogurt in order to reduce its water content to prevent spoilage. As a result of straining Greek yogurt, the lactose content is reduced, making it higher in protein. Just 3.5 ounces (100 grams) provides 10 grams of protein!

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for weight loss. It can help to aid in reducing appetite, regulates hunger hormones, and increases your metabolism.

These are not the only health benefits that you will tend to find in Greek food, but they are benefits that should not go unnoticed. In general, eating a diet that consists of real Greek foods will help you improve the health of your body and heart.

The Greek Deli stocks artisanal products, including olive oils, wines, cheeses,  mezedes, ready meals (such as pastitsio and gemista), sweets (such as baklava and kourabiedes), and Greek coffee (Loumidis). We even stock beloved Greek chocolates and cookies such as Lacta, Ion, Sokofreta, and Gemista cookies, as well as an impressive selection of Greek wines. Also on sale are gift boxes, which can either be customized with your favorite products or pre-made (one box includes extra virgin olive oil, two bottles of wine, two jars of olive paste, roasted peppers, honey, chilies, and balsamic vinegar—perfect for sending the best of Greek tastes to a distant beloved!).

Accompanied by the very best of what Greek nature has to offer, we find our way into your homes and into your hearts. The Greek Deli has maximized our efforts so our deliveries are swift and provided in a safe and hygienic manner!

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