I haven't got the book yet as I'm in England and I'm not sure it's available here yet. I've been looking in the bookstores and haven't seen it but I'm getting ready to check Amazon.co.uk. If not, I'll have my sis order it and then ship it to me!

I started to read about the Mediterranean Diet and realized that, for the most part, that is the way that I cook and eat. So when I found out about Sonoma, I was very excited. Not only do I need to lose weight but my husband has just found he has high blood pressure and cholestorol issues.

I just have a few quick questions while I wait for my copy of the book. What is a serving size of almonds if eaten as a snack? I do find myself having a handful here and there, mostly to avoid binging on crisps. I can't really eat more than that at one time but I sometimes do that several times a day. Also, are hazelnuts, cashews or walnuts a good substitute?

Second, are anchovies okay? I added a few to a chicken cacciatore last night to enhance the flavor. It was totally delicious but I'm wondering if they were OP?

And third, I tend to use white wine often in cooking. Is that okay on Sonoma? I'd hate to have to give it up!

Thank you for your help!

Welcome to the forum. Hope you enjoy your stay.

Snack serving of almonds is 11.
And most all nuts are okay on this plan. Other serving sizes are:

Peanuts — 14 Pecans — 10 halves, Walnuts — 7 halves

Anchovies are fine. I can't think of any fish that is prohibited.

Wine is fine, but it is suggested to avoid wine for the 10 day Wave 1. After Wave one, one glass is fine.

Thanks, LindaT! I can manage to avoid any recipes that call for wine during the first 10 days. Cool. I don't think I'm eating more than 11 almonds at a time. I'll have to grab a handful and then start counting, hehe!