Portuguese Health Authorities publish the Mediterranean Diet Wheel, associating wine in moderation with the Mediterranean eating pattern.

In a document published in June, by the Portuguese Ministry of Health, called “Mediterranean wheel”, consumers are recommended to adopt healthy eating and drinking habits linked to the Mediterranean Diet. The “Wheel of Mediterranean Diet – culture, tradition & balance” advises to:

• Choose local and seasonal foods;
• Valorise healthy gastronomy;
• Share meals and traditions;
• Use aromatic herbs;
• Remember dried fruits;
• Exercise and have a good time; and
• If you are an adult and drink wine, do it in moderation and with a meal.

This new publication, in line with other Mediterranean countries guidelines, confirms once again the unique role of moderate wine consumption in the Mediterranean diet, lifestyle and culture.

Considered as one of the healthiest diets, the Mediterranean Diet was recognized by UNESCO in 2011 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The traditional Mediterranean Diet is indeed characterised by a high intake of fresh fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts, cereals and fish and a low intake of meats, especially red, with olive oil as the principal source of fat, and of course the moderate and daily intake of wine during meals.