How To Follow
- How do I follow the Mediterranean diet?

As per recent survey and analysis, research has confirmed that Mediterranean diet is the number one diet.

As per a recent survey and analysis, research has confirmed that the Mediterranean diet is the number one diet.

As per a recent survey and analysis, research has confirmed that the Mediterranean diet is the number one diet. As per research, people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea live longer and are at a low risk of cancer or cardiovascular ailments than other people. Research also suggests that the benefits of following a Mediterranean-style eating pattern may help in improved weight loss, better control of blood glucose (sugar) levels, and a reduced risk of depression, levels of inflammation (a risk factor for heart attack), stroke, and Alzheimer's disease. The Mediterranean diet focuses on the following:

Olive oil rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids
Fruits
Vegetables
Whole grains
Fish (at least a couple of times a week)
Chicken
Beans
Nuts
Legumes
Flavorful herbs and spices
Occasional poultry, eggs, red meat, and a glass of wine
Cheese and yogurt in moderation

The Mediterranean diet is considered number one because of the below reasons:

Short-term and long-term weight loss
Effectiveness of cardiovascular disease prevention
Effectiveness for preventing diabetes
Ease of compliance
Nutritional completeness
Prevention of other health risks

As per research, average people living in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea follow the below diet protocol:

Breakfast: Smoked salmon or a slice of whole-grain toast with half of a mashed avocado
Lunch: Gazpacho soup or a spiced lentil salad
Dinner: Penne pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, and pine nuts

Having a glass of wine in moderation is fine. Poultry, eggs, red meat, cheese, and yogurt may be added to the diet once a week. As part of the diet, one should enjoy food and wine in moderation and socializing with friends and family during meals as part of the prescription.

How do I follow the Mediterranean diet?

Below are a few tips to follow the Mediterranean diet:

Switch to olive oil: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which may improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is a good type of cholesterol. HDL cholesterol removes bad low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles out of the arteries. Olive oil may also be used on homemade salad dressings and finished dishes such as fish or chicken to boost flavor.
Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel have good proteins and are rich in heart- and brain-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Vegetables: A good way to eat veggies is to eat one serving at snack time such as crunching on bell pepper strips or throwing a handful of spinach into a smoothie and one at dinner. Aim for at least two servings per day. More is better. At least three servings can help to bust stress.
Whole grains: A hot bowl of oatmeal is perfect for breakfast. Even popcorn is a whole grain without butter. Supplement intake with other whole-grain products such as whole-wheat bread and pasta is beneficial.
Nuts: Almonds, cashews, or pistachios can make for a satisfying snack. They are lower in calories, added sugar, and sodium. They contain more fiber and minerals, such as potassium, than processed snack foods.
Fruits as dessert: They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants; fresh fruits are a healthy way to indulge a sweet tooth. It is a healthy snack when an individual is hungry.
Wine: As per research, women should stick to a 3-ounce serving per day, and men should stick to 5-ounce serving per day.

Research emphasizes that following the number one diet or Mediterranean diet may give an individual stronger bones, a healthier heart, and longer life, along with a reduced risk of diabetes and high blood pressure. It can also prevent dementia and breast cancer.