In case you haven't heard, the Mediterranean Diet is really, really good for you. If you want to follow it, it's fairly simple: eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, good oils and drink red wine. But the #1 reason to embrace the Mediterranean Diet is because there's a lot of benefits. Take a look at the top 10 reasons to love this way of eating.
Read more ¿Qué más? 5 Spanish recipes to help you lose weight on the Mediterranean Diet
Image via Corbis
You'll Have a Healthier Aging Brain
The latest study shows that eating this kind of diet may preserve a more youthful brain in old age. And who doesn't want a more powerful brain as we age?
It Will Make You Fall in Love with Quinoa
Healthy grains are one of the main draws of the Mediterranean diet, and quinoa is at the top of my list thanks to being a complete protein (and being delicious, too).
You Might Actually Finally Lose Weight
If you're looking to simply lose weight, the Mediterranean Diet may actually be a safe bet for you. It's been ranked the #3 best overall diet by U.S. News & World Report.
Bring on the Red Wine!
Red wine is definitely on the list of acceptable or, shall I say, much-loved aspects of the Mediterranean Diet. Um, another glass, please?
Lower Your Cholesterol & Diabetes Risk
If you have issues with high cholesterol or are at risk for diabetes (like many of us Latinos), then you might be glad to know that the Mediterranean Diet actually helps you lower that risk.
Adding in Olive Oil Will Be Good for You
Olive oil is a big part of a healthy diet, and making it your primary cooking ingredient is an easy way to have more of it. You can even indulge in some fresh uses for olive oil, if you're up for it.
It's Really, Really Good for Your Heart
Incredibly, a study found that about 30% of heart attacks, strokes and deaths from heart disease can be prevented in people at high risk if they switch to this diet. I say, eat up!
There's Nothing Easier than Fish for Dinner
Whether you're making a no-cook ceviche, a tuna tortilla or a seasoned salmon, fish is always an easy go-to dinner. Personally, I just grill it with salt, pepper, some seasonings… and add a whole lot of veggies.
It Helps Many Diseases, Too
The Mediterranean Diet seems to just be an all-around good choice. In fact, it has been proven to help many diseases (besides what we already mentioned).
Tropical Fruits Make Delicious Desserts
A fresh mango for dessert can be a wonderful thing, and definitely something that's okay on this diet. In fact, there's many different ways to have mango desserts. And many other tropical fruits, too!
