Many doctors and scientists across the world recommend to patients the Mediterranean diet, but why? A lot of our food today is processed heavily, pumped full or hormones, or sprayed with harmful pesticides which make it extremely hard to eat clean. When we want to lose a little extra weight we often turn to fad diets that give little, if any, results that are hardly ever long lasting. The Mediterranean diet isn’t your average crash diet, it’s described as a lifestyle. In short, the Mediterranean diet consists of healthy, clean food to not only fuel your body but to also nourish and strengthen it from the inside out. Let’s peak into this diet and see if it lives up to the hype.

What the Mediterranean diet looks like

The Mediterranean diet consists mainly of plant based foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and herbs and spices. Basically anything that the earth provides for us. Each meal can then contain a small portion of lean meat, fish, poultry, and other forms of clean protein such as dairy, eggs or beans. The name of the diet itself sounds very complicated and intimidating, but in reality it is extremely simple and easy to prepare meals for. You aren’t restricted from certain food groups like other diets and by eating more simple foods your body can tell the difference. You will notice a change in how you feel, your energy level, and how you look.

Key benefits of the Mediterranean diet

Weight loss can definitely be achieved with this diet if you also restrict your calorie intake, but what this diet is most know for are the many health benefits. Some of the key benefits of the Mediterranean diet that have been claimed by the doctors and scientists who recommend it are: the prevention of certain diseases, decreased inflammation throughout the body, increased blood vessel function and healthy aging in general to name a few. It has been shown to help reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. It can also significantly help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

grilled salmon

Results of those who have tried the Mediterranean diet

People who have put the Mediterranean diet to the test have reported a greater weight loss and loss of stubborn belly fat over time. This is likely thanks to the elimination of processed foods and extreme reduction of sugar. Overall health improvement is another result of this diet or rather, lifestyle choice. When you fill your body with natural and whole ingredients, your body is sure to improve in overall function and how you feel. Although research is still forthcoming current studies claim that the Mediterranean diets can lengthen your lifespan. Who doesn’t want to live a longer, happier life?

The Mediterranean diet is not just the latest fad or crash diet. If you are looking for fast weight loss results, it may not be the way for you to go. If you are looking to increase your overall health and make a lifestyle change, try it out! There is absolutely no harm in eating clean and giving yourself a healthier way of life.