Key components of the Mediterranean diet
- Eating of primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts
- Replacing butter with healthy fats such as olive oil and canola oil
- Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods
- Limiting red meat to no more than a few times a month
- Eating fish and poultry at least twice a week
- Enjoying meals with family and friends
- Drinking red wine in moderation (optional)
- Getting plenty of exercise.
MORE IDEAS FROM THE ARTICLE
The diet includes fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains, plus a splash of flavorful olive oil and perhaps a glass of red wine.
Research has shown that the traditional Mediterranean diet
- reduces the risk of heart disease
- is associated with a lower level of the "bad" cholesterol
- is associated with a reduced incidence of cancer, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
RELATED IDEAS
The basic concept of the paleo diet is to eat whole foods and avoid processed foods.
Studies suggest that this diet can lead to significant weight loss and major improvements in health.
The diet is abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and olive oil.
It features fish and poultry—lean sources of protein—over red meat.
Red wine is consumed regularly but in moderate amounts.
The “best” diet is a theme: an emphasis on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and plain water for thirst.
That can be with or without seafood; with or without dairy; with or without eggs; with or without some meat; high or low in total fat.