A good way to fit in more veggies is to eat one serving at snack time, such as bell pepper strips or a spinach smoothie, and one at dinner, such as a side dish. Aim for at least two servings per day.

Eat Veggies All Day Long

The Mediterranean diet is abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and olive oil. It also contains moderate amounts of fish and poultry as lean protein sources. Red wine is consumed regularly but in moderate amounts. Research suggests many health benefits following a Mediterranean-style eating pattern, such as improved weight loss, better blood-sugar levels and reduced risk of depression. Other benefits include reduced inflammation levels  - a risk factor for heart attack, stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

The Mediterranean Diet Overview

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. It improves HDL cholesterol, the "good" type of cholesterol. A 2017 study showed that HDL cholesterol moves "bad" LDL particles out of arteries. Use olive oil in homemade salad dressings. Drizzle it on finished dishes like fish or chicken. Substitute butter with olive oil in mashed potatoes or pasta.

Cook with Olive Oil

Fish is the go-to protein in the Mediterranean diet. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines and mackerel are rich in heart- and brain-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Even leaner fish like cod or tilapia are worth it, as they provide a good source of protein. If you don't eat a lot of fish, an easy entry point is to designate one day each week as fish night.

Eat More Fish

Grains should be in their "whole" form and not be refined. <ul><li>Experiment with quinoa as a side dish for weeknight meals.</li><li>Barley is full of fibre and filling. Add mushrooms for a satisfying soup.</li><li>Oatmeal is perfect for breakfast.</li><li>Even popcorn is a whole grain. Keep it healthy by eating air-popped corn and drizzling olive oil on instead of butter.</li><li>Supplement with whole-grain products like whole-wheat bread and pasta. The term "whole grain" should be the first ingredient on the food package.</li><li>If you find the switch too difficult, mix whole-grain with refined half-and-half.</li></ul>

Help Yourself to Whole Grains

Instead of eating your meal in front of the TV, slow down. Sit at the table with your family and friends to savour what you're eating. You will enjoy your company and eat slower, which allows you to tune in to your body's hunger and fullness signals.

Savour Every Bite

Dietitians recommend that women stick to a 3-ounce serving and men to a 5-ounce serving per day. Try to sip with a meal. It is even better when that meal is shared with loved ones.

Sip (a Little) Wine

Fresh fruit is a healthy way to curb your sweet tooth. Fruit is a good source of fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants. Keep fresh fruit visible at home and take a piece or two to work for a healthful snack.

Enjoy Fruit for Dessert

Nuts are a Mediterranea diet staple. Nuts contain more fibre and minerals, such as potassium, than processed snack foods. A satisfying, on-the-go snack is some almonds, cashews or pistachios.

Snack on Nuts

What is the Mediterranean diet and how can you start eating one of the healthiest diets in the world? Here are 8 easy ideas to get more Mediterranean diet foods into your life.

Savour Every Bite

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