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You've Heard of the Mediterranean Diet. Meet Its Climate-Conscious Cousin
You've Heard of the Mediterranean Diet. Meet Its Climate-Conscious Cousin

Yahoo

time01-06-2025

  • Health
  • Yahoo

You've Heard of the Mediterranean Diet. Meet Its Climate-Conscious Cousin

The Mediterranean diet has spiked in popularity over the past couple of years -- and for good reason. It was named the best diet overall by US News and World Report for the eighth year in a row. The diet recommends meals filled with fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and oils, seafood and lean poultry. If you have been interested in the Mediterranean diet, there's now another popular, similar diet to try. The planetary health diet also encourages plant-based eating, but it has a special emphasis on sustainability for the planet. Here's what a nutrition expert has to say about this diet and whether it's worth it for you and the environment. Best Healthy Meal Delivery Services See at CNET The planetary health diet was developed by the non-profit EAT-Lancet Commission in 2019. The organization is dedicated to a global sustainable food system that's healthy for humans and the planet. By 2050, it's estimated that the world population will be close to 10 billion. The EAT-Lancet Commission created and continually promotes the planetary health diet to ensure we will have enough food to feed all people and a healthy planet we can all live on. The main aspect of the planetary health diet is plant-based, meaning lots of fruit, non-starchy vegetables, nuts and legumes. The diet also includes whole grains, plant-sourced proteins and unsaturated plant oils. While it also allows for starchy vegetables, added sugars, dairy and animal-sourced meats, the approved amounts are smaller. "The diet aims to nourish a growing global population while reducing the environmental impact of food productionm," said Debbie Petitpain, MBA, RD, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The keeping and production of animal products, especially red meats, have a high carbon footprint on the planet. Peitipain continued: "[The planetary diet] supports lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced land and water use and preservation of biodiversity." Meat lovers, don't worry. While the planetary health diet does limit animal-sourced meats, it doesn't completely eliminate them. The diet allows for about 98 grams of red meat, 203 grams of poultry and 196 grams of fish per week. In addition to the positive impacts on the planet, those following the planetary health diet may also reap benefits for their overall health. "Like other plant-forward patterns (i.e., Mediterranean diet or DASH), the [planetary health] diet is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers, due to its focus on whole, plant-based foods and healthy fats," Petitpain told CNET. Plant-based diets have also been linked to the following: Lower risks of strokes Better weight management Increased mental well-being Healthier digestive tract Lower blood pressure Reduced inflammation Increased kidney health Boosted immune system The planetary health diet is plant-forward but not necessarily vegetarian or vegan. It allows for moderate amounts of meat, fish and dairy products, but half your plate should be fruits, non-starchy vegetables, nuts and legumes. The diet also recommends a daily calorie intake of 2,500 to avoid overeating. According to EAT's website, "This amount will vary based on age, gender, activity levels and health profiles. Overconsumption is a waste of food with both health and environmental costs." According to the EAT-Lancet Commission, here's how to follow the planetary health diet: 125 grams of dry beans, lentils, peas and other nuts or legumes per day 98 grams of red meat per week 203 grams of poultry per week 196 grams of fish per week The guidelines also call for cooking at home whenever possible, sharing meals and choosing one serving size to avoid overconsumption, wasting less food, purchasing food directly from farmers and eating less processed foods. Diets always come with some complaints. "Some critics argue the diet's strict limits on animal products may not be culturally practical, affordable or nutritionally adequate for everyone," said Petitpain. "Others question the global applicability of its recommendations, citing differences in regional agriculture and nutrient needs. While health and environmental benefits are well-supported, implementation challenges remain." Before heading to the grocery store for the week, let these sample meals spark some ideas. Lemon blueberry baked oatmeal Avocado toast with whole-grain bread Minestrone soup with fresh seasonal vegetables Turkey burger, whole wheat bun with sweet potato fries Stuffed pita bread with curry-fried chickpeas and herb yogurt Salmon over salad with avocado dressing Hummus and veggies Banana, peanut butter and strawberries Check out more meal ideas and recipes at EAT's website. If you have already been intrigued by the Mediterranean diet, then the planetary diet might be worth a try. Here's who should try this diet and who should avoid it. Petitpain said the planetary health diet "is suitable for everyone, although some groups may need larger portions of certain food groups or supplementation." For most, however, she states that the diet can help improve long-term health issues while also being kind to the planet. She continued, "It can benefit people at risk for chronic diseases due to its nutrient-dense, high-fiber and plant-forward approach. It is also appropriate for those interested in flexitarian or semi-vegetarian eating patterns." No diet is a one-size-fits-all solution. "Populations with higher nutrient needs, such as young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, women with heavy menstrual cycles and individuals with certain medical conditions, may need personalized modifications," said Petitpain. "People with limited access to diverse plant foods or those at risk for deficiencies (e.g., iron, B12) should approach the diet with guidance." Careful and knowledgeable planning is vital to meeting all your nutrition requirements, and Petitpain suggests seeking a registered dietitian or nutritionist. Petitpain also recommends "gradually increasing plant-based meals while reducing red meat and processed foods" and shooting for "balance rather than perfection." "Focus on variety to ensure adequate protein, iron, omega-3s and other nutrients, possibly with fortified foods or supplements as needed. Always consider personal health needs and consult with a registered dietitian for tailored guidance," she continued. On the planetary health diet, half of your diet should be plant-based. However, you can eat about 98 grams of red meat and 203 grams of poultry per week. You can also eat 196 grams of fish. The guidelines for the planetary health diet include eating mostly plant-based foods. In addition to 125 grams of dry beans, lentils, peas and other nuts or legumes per day, 98 grams of red meat per week, 203 grams of poultry per week and 196 grams of fish per week, the diet also allows for whole grains and moderate amounts of dairy, added sugars, unsaturated plant oils and starchy vegetables. The planetary health diet was invented by the non-profit EAT-Lancet Commission. The organization aims to feed the projected population of 10 billion people by 2050 while also ensuring we have a happy and healthy planet to live on. The planetary diet is similar to the Mediterranean diet. "Both diets are rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and healthy fats like olive oil, with moderate fish and minimal red meat intake. They both limit solid fats, added sugar and processed foods. The planetary health diet is framed around global environmental limits, whereas the Mediterranean diet is more rooted in cultural traditions," said Petitpain.

Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad recipe
Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad recipe

CBS News

time28-05-2025

  • Health
  • CBS News

Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad recipe

Rania Harris is ending her May salad series with a recipe for Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad! She's showing Katie O'Malley how to mix it up. Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad (Photo Credit: KDKA) Ingredients 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 2 teaspoons hot paprika 2 teaspoons chili powder Sea salt to taste 2 whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds) 4 tablespoons canola oil 1 each red, yellow and orange bell pepper - halved, stemmed, seeded, cut into thin strips 2 sweet onions, peeled, halved and sliced into thin crescents 3 large ripe plum tomatoes – chopped 1/3 cup chopped Italian parsley Juice of one large lime 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Chopped Romaine lettuce Tortilla chips Lime wedges Directions: Preheat grill to medium high heat. Toss the cumin, thyme, pepper, paprika, chili powder and salt together to taste in a small bowl. Rinse the chicken, pat dry, and trim off any excess fat. Place the chicken in a baking dish and sprinkle and 2 tablespoons of the spice mixture. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the oil and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least two hours or overnight. In a large sauté skillet, heat a small amount of canola oil and sauté the peppers until they begin to blacken and blister a bit. Remove the peppers to a bowl and add the onions to the same skillet. Sauté until the start to brown well. Add the onions to the same bowl with the peppers and season with some of seasoning mixture to taste. When ready to grill the chicken, heat the grill to medium high., Grill the chicken until it is a bit charred around the edges and just cooked through - about 3 - 5 minutes per side. Cut the chicken into 1/4-inch wide diagonal strips and toss into the bowl with the peppers and the onions. Season to taste with the spice mixture, the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, tomatoes, parsley, lime juice and vinegar. Toss, and season with additional salt as needed. Line a platter with the romaine lettuce and top with the chicken fajita salad. Surround the platter with the tortilla chips. Serves: 4 - 6

Fresh From The Garden: A Spring Harvest Salad To Celebrate The Season
Fresh From The Garden: A Spring Harvest Salad To Celebrate The Season

Yahoo

time10-05-2025

  • Lifestyle
  • Yahoo

Fresh From The Garden: A Spring Harvest Salad To Celebrate The Season

The warm breezes of spring are more than just a mood booster, they're a promise from Mother Nature. Gardens wake up, farmers' markets buzz to life, and our plates start to reflect the colorful energy of the season. From the juicy snap of early cherries to the tender crunch of asparagus, spring offers an invitation to eat fresh, green, and alive. This Spring Harvest Salad is a tribute to all that. If you're anything like me, you've likely already indulged in a version of this each fall. Fall Harvest Salads - packed with a cornucopia of autumn basics like kale, apples, and sweet potatoes - are on a steady rotation in my house during the colder months. But I found myself craving a spring equivalent that was a better fit for warmer weather. This recipe includes seasonal stars like strawberries, spinach, sugar snap peas, and even the unsung hero of spring cooking: carrot greens, which bring a bright, parsley-like flavor to your fork. Whether you're enjoying this salad on a sun-drenched patio or packing it for a spring picnic, it's a bowl full of renewal. Spring vegetables are all about flavor and freshness. Asparagus and leeks replace heavier winter roots, cucumber adds a cool crunch, and early cherries bring a pop of sweetness that plays beautifully with leafy greens. Carrot tops? Don't toss them—they're edible and delicious, with a flavor somewhere between parsley and carrot. Ingredients: 2 cups baby spinach 1 cup arugula 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved 1 cup thinly sliced asparagus (blanched for 1 minute if desired) 1/2 cup sliced cucumber 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 1/2 cup thinly sliced leeks (a fresh spring replacement for onions) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh carrot greens Crumbled feta cheese (measure with your heart) 1/4 cup toasted macadamia nuts For the Dressing: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar 1/2 cup of blended strawberries 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, kale, snap peas, asparagus, cucumber and leeks. Add in the strawberries, cherries, goat cheese, and nuts. Sprinkle with chopped carrot greens for a fresh, herbal finish. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and emulsified. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Tip: Add grilled chicken or salmon to turn it into a full meal, or pair it with a chilled white wine and some crusty bread for a perfect outdoor lunch. This is a salad that tastes like springtime itself—bright, crisp, and just a little bit indulgent. It's the kind of recipe that makes you feel good, inside and out, and celebrates all the simple beauty spring has to offer. lead editor Jenn Jordan explores how weather and climate weave through our daily lives, shape our routines and leave lasting impacts on our communities. MORE ON Cozy Springtime Brews For Rainy Days Think Spring With Pasta Primavera Tacos For Breakfast? Yes, Please.

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