Program Summary: Maria Boosalis, “Healthy Eating the Mediterranean Way,” January 20, 2022

Dr. Boosalis received her doctorate (PhD) in Nutrition from the University of Minnesota, her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in Nutrition from the University of California, Berkeley & is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Licensed Dietitian (LD). 

Dr. Boosalis has extensive experience in clinical, research, public health & academic settings including the University of California San Francisco Children’s Renal Center, the University of Southern California General Clinical Research Center and University of Kentucky; the Minnesota Department of Health; and academically, as tenured faculty in the Division of Clinical Nutrition, University of Kentucky, as an invited guest lecturer at the University of Minnesota and as Professor, Northwestern Health Sciences University where she created and ran a Master’s program in applied clinical nutrition for health professionals.

Dr. Boosalis is also the past recipient of the John M. Kinney International Award for Nutrition and Metabolism and earned Certificates in Childhood and Adolescent as well as Adult Weight Management from Commission on Dietetic Registration & a Certificate in Business Administration from the University of Kentucky.   

In addition, she has authored over 40 peer-reviewed research papers/textbook chapters, provided over 175 media interviews & over 100 invited presentations as a health/wellness/nutrition expert.

Program Summary by Mike Madden:

On Thursday morning Dr. Maria Boosalis spoke to us on, “Healthy Eating, the Mediterranean Way.” Dr. Boosalis, PhD, MPH, RDN, LD, received her PhD from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Boosalis spoke on a subject with which members who follow health and nutrition have some familiarity. Still, she brought a wealth of detail and a fresh view on the importance of balance and moderation in life and diet. She explained that the term, “diet” is derived from the expression “dieta,’ meaning a way of life. The Mediterranean way of life has been demonstrated to provide benefits in overall health and longevity. It consists of six major components:

  • A physically active lifestyle
  • Regular socialization with fiends and family
  • Small – moderate use of alcohol, typically red wine
  • Rest & Relaxation
  • Adequate water intake, and
  • Mediterranean-style healthy eating

Exercise can be moderate but should be regular. Socialization should be built into daily life. Alcohol is required, but if used should be used in moderation, red wine being among the better options, in small amounts, with meals. Adequate sleep is essential and relaxation can incorporate physical activity, such as walking.

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