Mediterranean diet

noun

: a diet typical of many Mediterranean countries (such as Italy and Spain) that consists mainly of cereals, grains, vegetables, beans, fruits, and nuts along with moderate amounts of fish, cheese, olive oil, and wine and little red meat

The Mediterranean diet is a veteran of the diet scene and not quite as trendy or weight-loss-focused as some of its siblings. But it's a perennial favorite of doctors and dietitians, buoyed by studies that suggest it can lower the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

—Gisela Telis

Examples of Mediterranean diet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There was a ton of cuisine and dietary variety to browse; beyond the usual vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free options, there were dishes that claim to offer GLP-1 balance or fit the profile for the Mediterranean diet. — Marisa Malanga, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 June 2026

Her yogurt habit sat alongside a Mediterranean diet, daily movement, a busy social calendar, solid sleep and zero tobacco or alcohol. — Allison Palmer updated June 24, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026

The Mediterranean diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, is associated with better sperm quality, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. — Gabriela Galvin, Wired News, 18 June 2026

Research consistently points toward the same protective factors: sleep quality, cardiovascular health, physical activity, blood pressure management, stress reduction, social engagement and nutrient-dense diets like the Mediterranean diet. — Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Mediterranean diet

• disquiet
• unquiet
• guyot
• piet
• quiet
• riot

Medical Definition

Mediterranean diet

noun

: a diet typical of many Mediterranean countries (as Italy and Spain) that consists mainly of cereals, grains, vegetables, beans, fruits, and nuts along with moderate amounts of fish, cheese, olive oil, and wine and little red meat