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The Mediterranean diet

Te whiringa kai whakatautika

The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating that is based on traditional foods eaten in countries around the Mediterranean Sea.

People following the Mediterranean diet are more likely to live longer. They are also less likely to die from heart disease, stroke or cancer. The Mediterranean diet may prevent or reduce symptoms of diabetes, glaucoma, arthritis, Parkinson disease, menopause, depression and dementia.

The diet is rich in plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and wholegrains. It includes some fish, chicken, low-fat milk and milk products and healthy fats. Red meat and processed meat are limited. The Mediterranean diet also focuses on a healthy lifestyle or pattern. This means keeping active and getting plenty of rest. Also, relaxing and sharing meals with whānau (family) and friends.

Tips for following a Mediterranean diet

Eat plenty of plant foods

Have at least 5 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit every day. A serving is about a handful. Include at least 1 serving of raw vegetables every day. Eat a variety of different coloured and textured fruits and vegetables.

Include wholegrains with every meal. Wholegrains include wholegrain bread, rolled oats, brown rice, wholemeal pasta and grains such as quinoa, millet, barley and buckwheat.

Have legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, black beans or kidney beans in a couple of meals every week. The Heart Foundation's Full O'Beans cookbook has information and recipes for legumes.

Choose low‑fat milk and milk products

Use low‑fat milk (green or yellow top) instead of whole milk (dark blue top) and use yoghurt instead of ice cream. Choose low‑fat yoghurt and cheese such as Edam, feta and cottage cheese. Have fermented milk products like live yoghurt and kefir regularly if you enjoy them.

Eat fish and seafood regularly

Eat fish or other seafood such as mussels at least twice a week. Choose oily fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and tuna often. Fresh fish and canned fish are both healthy choices. Avoid fried fish. Use healthy cooking methods such as grilling, steaming or lightly pan‑frying in a little olive or canola oil.

Have lean white meat and eggs

Have skinless chicken at least twice a week. Eat up to 4 eggs every week.

Limit red meat and processed meat

Do not eat more than 2 servings of red meat and 1 serving of processed meat a week. A serving is the size and thickness of the palm of your hand (about 100 grams cooked). Processed meats include sausages, bacon, ham, salami, prosciutto, chorizo and corned beef (or silverside).

Eat olives, unsalted nuts and seeds every day

Have a small handful (30 grams) of nuts or seeds, unsalted and raw or roasted without added fat. Have them as a snack or add them to your breakfast cereal, salad or stir-fry. Add diced olives to salads, stews or sandwiches.

Replace butter by olive oil

Replace butter and margarine by olive oil or canola oil. Lightly spread the oil on wholegrain bread and use it in cooking and dressings. Cold pressed extra virgin olive oil has more health benefits than other types of olive oil. It is also the most flavourful.

Choose olive oil with a recent harvest date or a long shelf life. Also, choose one that is in a dark glass bottle or tin. Store the oil in a cool dark place, away from heat and light.

Drink plenty of fluids

Drink at least 8 cups of fluids a day. Water is best. Low‑ or reduced‑fat milk (light‑blue, green, or yellow top) and tea, herbal tea and coffee with no sugar are also fine.

Flavour food without using salt

Use ground pepper, lemon juice, vinegar, fresh garlic, ginger, mustard, chilli or other herbs and spices to flavour your food.

Limit sugar and sugary foods

Choose foods that are naturally sweet and contain lots of nutrients, like fruit. Keep sugary foods and drinks as occasional treats.

If you drink alcohol, drink red wine in moderation

Wine, especially red wine, is a traditional part of a Mediterranean diet. But we now know there is no safe amount of alcohol. If you drink alcohol, have it in small amounts and with meals.

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