Since the 1950s, health professionals such as Ancel Keys have been studying the diets of the people of the Mediterranean. The people of Greece, particularly Crete, had the longest life expectancy in the world until the 1960s, followed by Southern Italy, Spain, and France. The important aspects of the Mediterranean diet are high intakes of cereals, grains, vegetables, dried beans, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, seafood, and fruit.
Wine is taken with food in moderation.
Meat and poultry are also eaten in moderation, with poultry more frequently served than red meat. Animal fats in the form of butter, cream and lard are not included in the diet. Much of the Mediterranean food and cooking found today can be traced back to times of antiquity. The area that compromises the Mediterranean consists of three continents and more than 15 countries. It was on the shores of the Mediterranean that Western Civilization had its beginnings.