It’s a bold statement, but more and more studies are proving just how beneficial the Mediterranean diet can be.

Whether you want to reduce the risk of heart disease, lose some unwanted kilos, or just feel lighter, fitter and better – these top Mediterranean lifestyle choices will bring the “healthy” back into your daily diet. 

Think fresh, natural, plant-based foods that are in season – it’s that simple! 

Lunch as the Largest Meal // Greeks place great importance on lunch as the crucial meal of the day. You’ll find that most Greeks will sit down to a baked meal, grilled meat or fish at lunch time.

The Power of the Olive // It’s little wonder than when the goddess Athena offered the city of Athens an Olive Tree, they named the city after her. Using oils with monounsaturated fat, such as olive oil, in your cooking helps lower unhealthy cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Olive oil is the first choice in any Mediterranean pantry.

Just Enough Dairy // Natural yoghurt (none of that flavoured stuff) and feta cheese are enjoyed in small amounts. 

Fish x 2 // Eating fish twice a week is great for the cardiovascular system, brain function, nervous system and general growth and development. Fish and shellfish are staple components of a Mediterranean diet, especially oily varieties such as sardines, as well as mussels, clams and octopus.

Vegetables and Herbs // Food is always accompanied by vegetables, even if it’s as simple as a Village salad. Many Greeks enjoy at least 1-2 vegetarian dishes a week such as baked vegetables, Gemista (stuffed tomatoes or capsicum), and use both fresh and dried herbs to flavour their meals. These vegetables and herbs combined make Mediterranean meals high in antioxidants. 

Legumes for Life // Chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils and split peas are all a great source of plant-based protein and dietary fibre and are consumed twice a week in most Greek households. Whether incorporated into a salad, soup or blitzed into a delicious dip, legumes are surprisingly versatile. 

Keep it Lean // Keep your red meat lean, and eat less of it than you usually do! Keep processed meats like Salami and Prosciutto for your special entertaining occasions.  

Fruit as Dessert // Most Greek household and taverna meals end with a serving of fruit like watermelon or citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons that are known to boost immunity.

Geia Mas! // You’ll find most Greeks have a small glass of wine with lunch and dinner. Red wine, in particular, is better for you than white varieties as it's rich in the antioxidant that's been shown to reduce blood clots and the risk of stroke. Toast life and be happy!

For some Mediterranean food inspiration, visit our Homer St Greek Recipes page or shop our range of food products, made in Greece.