What is the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating based on the traditional cuisine of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. There's no single definition for the diet. But most often, it's high in:

• Vegetables.
• Fruits.
• Whole grains.
• Beans.
• Nuts and seeds.
• Olive oil.
• Seasoning with herbs and spices.

The main steps to follow the diet include:

• Each day, eat vegetables, fruits, whole grains and plant-based fats.
• Each week, have fish, poultry, beans, legumes and eggs.
• Enjoy moderate portions of dairy products.
• Limit how much red meat you eat.
• Limit how many foods with added sugar you eat.

Some other elements of the Mediterranean diet are to:

• Share meals with family and friends.
• Get regular exercise.
• Enjoy wine in moderation if you drink alcohol.