[dp0622]

I believe you.

the Mediterranean diet has worked great for my aunts and uncles. Living and thriving into 80 and beyond.

They don’t call it that. They just eat what their parents ate in Italy. Lot of veggies, especially beans, and some meat.

[Netz]

I live on the Mediterranean (Israel) and we eat wholesome foods as a rule but junk food is always readily available. You're right, you're relatives lived a simpler life with simpler foods and wow! Italian cooking!! An Italian friend of mine once told me that Italian food is basically farmers or peasant food. The French stole the Italian recipes and made them all fancy with sauces and such.