What is the Mediterranean Diet?
Also known as the MedDiet, the Mediterranean diet is an eating pattern used to describe the diet of many individuals living in the countries along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Italy, southern France, Crete, Spain and parts of the middle east.
The diet is primarily plant-based, with the minimal animal-based contributions coming from mostly seafood and fish dishes, poultry and a limited quantity of dairy products. The Mediterranean diet also includes large amounts of seasonal fruit and vegetables as well as beans, legumes and wholegrains. In terms of drink, water would be the first thing those following a Mediterranean diet would reach for, but the diet does not exclude coffee, tea, fruit juice and low to moderate alcohol consumption, typically in the form of red wine.
Why is the Mediterranean Diet So Popular?
As the Mediterranean diet focuses on whole, minimally processed foods, with an emphasis on plant-based ingredients, healthy fats and lean protein sources, it often means that those following the diet benefit from improved overall health and well-being. Not to mention that the vast range of Mediterranean recipes on offer gives people plenty of choice every single mealtime.
