Healthy and Delicious: Mediterranean Diet

Most diets deprive you of delicious food. The Mediterranean diet is a tasty exception to the rule. Many celebrities have had success with this diet, and you can too. (Which celebrities, you ask? Keep reading to find out. You will be surprised!)

Many people think that this is a current fad, but actually this diet was popularized in the 1990s and has been around since the mid-1940s. You might say it is tried and true. Many dietitians consider it to be a healthy diet, and I think you'll agree that it's delicious.

What makes up the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is heavy on olive oil, nuts or legumes such as soybeans or peas, fruits and vegetables, and unrefined cereals. Dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are consumed as part of the diet, as is fish. Wine also factors into the diet, which <!--more--> has helped its popularity! Red meat is not forbidden, but should be eaten rarely. Salt is discouraged, though herbs and spices are encouraged for flavor.

How about the preparation of food?

Fruits and vegetables are typically eaten raw because the unprocessed purity of the foods provides exceptional nutrition as well as great taste. In general, the foods are eaten raw or grilled, which results in a low-fat and low-calorie diet.

Does the Mediterranean diet affect your health?

Research indicates that following the Mediterranean diet can lower the risk of heart disease and cancer. A 2008 study published in the British Medical Journal also showed that the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease; a 2011 study by the American College of Cardiology Foundation showed that following the diet lowers blood pressure.

One of the reasons that the diet is so popular is that it's easy to follow. The foods are delicious and may not be a big change to your normal eating. Rachel Ray