Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet emphasizes consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, legumes, olive oil, and flavorful herbs and spices. Eating fish and seafood several times a week is encouraged as well as enjoying poultry, eggs, cheese, and yogurt in moderation. Sweets and red meat should be reserved for special occasions. For more information see the Mayo Clinic's web pages on the Mediterranean Diet.

Description: the-mediterranean-diet-pyramid  

Pros and Cons of the Mediterranean Diet

Pros

Cons

  • Covers all major food groups
  • Diverse flavors
  • May be easier to adhere to than more limiting dietsMay be more expensive to follow Cooking fresh food takes time Not designed as diet for weight loss
  • Comes close to American Heart Association dietary recommendations; low saturated fat
  • May be more expensive to follow
  • Cooking fresh food takes time
  • Not designed as diet for weight loss