People from the Mediterranean basin traditionally eat a Mediterranean diet. It’s primarily a plant based diet that limits animal products and completely avoids processed and refined foods.

There have been hundreds of studies that prove that consuming a Mediterranean diet has many health benefits. The diet has shown to improve heart health, cognitive ability, aging, and weight loss. It’s also proved to help reduce the risk of some major illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, Alzheimers and cardiovascular diseases.

In fact two of the five identified blue zones are in the Mediterranean. A blue zones are regions where there is an increased number of people that live past their 100s. These people live longer than average person does and suffer a lot less from chronic diseases.

What Do You Eat In A Mediterranean Diet?

Vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains and olive oil are consumed at every meal. Extra Virgin olive oil is the main source of fat in the Mediterranean diet and is used both raw and when cooking.

The Mediterranean lifestyle encourages being physically active. Meal times are important social gatherings opportunities that connect the community. It’s a time of taking a break from the daily routines, savoring the moment and enjoying life.

For more information on the health benefits of consuming extra virgin olive oil, click here.

For nutrition facts on olives, click here.

Sources: Nourish Article by WebMD, Healthline Article, Blue Zones