The Mediterranean diet

When doctors recommend a healthy diet, they often mention the Mediterranean diet. It is not really a 'diet' in the modern sense. It is a traditional way of eating from countries like Spain, Italy and Greece. The basics are simple. People eat a lot of vegetables, fruit, fish, whole grains, beans and nuts. Olive oil is the main source of fat. Meat, especially red meat, is eaten only a few times a month. Wine is also part of the tradition, but always in small amounts and with food. Several long studies have shown that people who follow this diet have a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. They also tend to live longer. Of course, food is only one piece of the puzzle. The Mediterranean lifestyle also includes walking, social meals and time outdoors. You cannot get all the benefits if you eat a Greek salad but spend the rest of the day on the sofa. The good news is that you do not need expensive ingredients. Simple, fresh, local food is exactly what doctors recommend.