The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating based on the traditional cuisines of Greece, Italy, and other countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. It emphasizes eating lots of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, and fish, with the use of olive oil. It allows a moderate number of dairy foods, and a low amount of red meat.

The Mediterranean diet has many health benefits. The diet is full of anti-inflammatory foods and contributes to weight loss, heart and brain health, cancer prevention, and diabetes prevention and control. The foods that are part of this diet are not only good for you, but they also taste good, too!

Here are some Mediterranean Diet tips:

• Healthy Fat: Olive oil is the primary source of added fat in the Mediterranean diet. Olive oil provides monounsaturated fat, which lowers total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Healthy fats like olive oil are an excellent energy source and help to keep you feeling fuller longer.
• The Mediterranean Way: Living the Mediterranean Way isn’t just about what you can and cannot eat. Following the Mediterranean diet makes eating an enjoyable experience and encourages good foods. Because it is satisfying, it becomes a lifestyle rather than a calorie-restricted diet, which will help promote healthy eating habits throughout your life.
• Gradual Transition: Start your transition to a Mediterranean Diet with a few simple changes. Add two healthy items to replace unhealthy items for 2 weeks then make two more changes. The changes will add up to a healthier life.

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