A Mediterranean diet incorporates the traditional healthy living habits of people from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including France, Greece, Italy and Spain.
The Mediterranean diet varies by country and region, so it has a range of definitions.
But in general, it’s high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats such as olive oil. It usually includes a low intake of meat and dairy foods.
Some studies have reported that food typical of the Mediterranean diet, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and extra virgin olive oil, have a favourable effect on the risk of hypertension.