Although the Mediterranean Diet is popular today, it has been a way of life for the people living in the Mediterranean region for thousands of years. These inhabitants have been enjoying the Mediterranean Diet for generations and have been reaping its benefits. It should be noted that the Romans were one of the first to see the Mediterranean Diet's benefits. In fact, when the Romans conquered a nation, it incorporated the Mediterranean Diet, and anywhere the Romans went, they took with them the Mediterranean diet.

While in ancient history the Mediterranean Diet was popular, it wasn't until the 20th century that Dr. Ancel Keys began recommending the Mediterranean Diet to his patients as he saw the many benefits that this type of diet can offer. Following suit other medical practitioners soon followed and thus the Mediterranean Diet once again became extremely popular.

The Mediterranean Diet

What does the Mediterranean Diet consists of? The Mediterranean Diet consists of lots of fruits and vegetables, fiber and whole grains. It should be noted that fish is also a major part of the Mediterranean Diet and it is recommended that it should be eaten at least three times a week due to the fact that it includes Omega 3 fatty acids.

Unlike fish, red meat is one of the least recommended foods within the Mediterranean Diet, as well as any processed foods or foods with empty calories such as soft drinks. The Mediterranean Diet also advocates a lot of healthy fats, however unlike butter and corn oil that is a staple in America, the Mediterranean Diet includes mono-saturated fats (healthier fats) such as olive oil and nuts.

Mediterranean Diet Pros

You can receive lots of benefits by going on a Mediterranean Diet. First of all, the Mediterranean Diet can help lower cholesterol in your body by simply switching from poly-saturated fats such as butter to mono-saturated fats such as olive oil. This diet is recommended for those that either have heart disease or would like to prevent it.

In many studies, it has been shown that people living in the Mediterranean region (following the Mediterranean Diet eating habits) live longer than those in Western countries.

Mediterranean Diet Cons

It should be noted that while the Mediterranean Diet is great for long term weight maintenance or to reduce the risk of heart disease, for those that are looking for a way to lose lots of weight immediately, the Mediterranean Diet is not the most effective diet available. For those looking for short term weight loss, a diet that lowers your caloric intake, as well as exercise is recommended.