I always considered Dr. Ancel Keys (1904-2004) as the most significant ambassador of the model defined worldwide as Mediterranean Diet. Which is not only about a diary -counting the calories- discipline, but, much more important, the evidence that inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea used to practice a daily diary that preserved them much better from bad cholesterol, heart attacks and cardio vascular diseases, giving -as a thanks- non just a longer life but a much better quality of life!
Dr. Keys most famous essay, the Seven Countries Study, became a must-seller for experts, passionate, and curious of the echo of the results and maybe more the popularity of the discussion that followed.
Mediterranean Diet as observed is abundant of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Saturated daily amount of fat intake low, largely balanced by monounsaturated fats from Extra Virgin Olive Oil and polyunsaturated fats from sea fish.
Should you be passionate-fans of butter, just keep it moderate. Never go for margarine ...much better pork fat or lard.
— Ettore Bellucci