We hear a lot about diet plans, especially in the beginning of the year.
When the calendar strikes January 1st, people often claim they’re ready to leave their holiday indulgences behind, in favor of a slimmer, healthier year ahead. Many times, that means succumbing to fad diets, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You can actually eat many of the foods you love by following a Mediterranean diet. The great thing is, this type of diet not only tastes good, but it’s good for you.
Weight loss
A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich plants means a diet full of nutritional value. This type of diet can help with weight loss, perhaps even more so than following a low-fat diet.
Bone & muscle mass
A lot of people hit the gym this time of year, and it turns out following this type of diet may help maintain higher bone density and greater muscle mass.
Better brain health
A Mediterranean diet can potentially also boost brain health and reduce the risk of dementia.
Longevity
If you want to live longer, a Mediterranean diet may do that too.
Gut health
Eating a variety of plant-based foods can also be a benefit in improving gut health with good bacteria.
Depression & anxiety
If you’re feeling anxious, or even depressed, a diet rich in fish, whole grains, fruits and veggies, and lean meats may help, as well.
Cholesterol
In addition, a Mediterranean-style diet may help boost good cholesterol, and lower bad cholesterol.
If you don’t know where to start...
Concentrate on getting more fruits and veggies in your diet, along with herbs, olive oil, fish, nuts, and seeds. Bell peppers are also good, but you can always try increasing the level of heat on the hot pepper scale, with options like cayenne pepper.