Mediterranean Diet and Heart Health

Research shows the Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruits and vegetables, whole-grains, low-fat dairy, fish, nuts and legumes is good for your heart. And there are several studies that suggest following a Mediterranean diet may improve your chances of living longer, decrease your risk of metabolic syndrome, and help to prevent Alzheimer's.

The Mediterranean diet isn't a low-carb or low-fat diet -- it includes both good carbs from whole grains and healthy fats from olive oils, nuts and fish. A Mediterranean diet also provides omega-3 fatty acids while avoiding excess saturated fats.

How to Follow a Mediterranean Diet

Here are the main components:

• olives and olive oil
• whole grains, mostly in bread and cereal rather than pasta
• very little red meat
• fish and seafood
• some cheese, but less (or low-fat) milk
• lots of vegetables and fruit
• legumes and nuts
• a little red wine, if you'd like

If you want to know more, here are some tips for getting started:

• Starting a Mediterranean Diet
• Mediterranean Diet for Heart Health
• Introduction to Greek Food and Greek Cooking