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

In one study, participants with Alzheimer's who ate a Mediterranean diet rich in coconut oil saw improvements in their cognitive function and memory. —Health, 14 May 2025

Turning to healthier eating patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help lower the risk of developing this brain disorder. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 13 May 2025

Wine in small to moderate amounts is also permitted in the Mediterranean diet, but is not necessary or appropriate for everyone. —Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025

Our providers recommend the Mediterranean diet, which suggests filling half of your plate with produce, and the rest with beans, legumes, whole grains, unsaturated fats, seafood, low-fat dairy, and/or skinless poultry. —Sarah Bonnema, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Mediterranean diet

• disquiet
• panchayat
• 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