This translates into breaking down the Med diet into good/bad foods as well; if I cut out all dairy, or all meat, etc. from my diet, I would be significantly less happy.

Not only would I not be enjoying these foods, but it would also make dining out or at friends’ houses very difficult. So, emphasizing the whole diet is important for the “happiness” factor, too … at least in my opinion!

Take dairy products, for example. I know many people who just don’t partake of them, and won’t. Maybe they don’t need to worry about it. There are other sources of calcium and vitamin D.

I’m just playing devil’s advocate. Cheese and yogurt are time-honored components of the Mediterranean diet.

-Steve