Not only is it tasty, but it is also healthy and good for your body.
On top of these positive benefits, following this type of diet can reduce the risk of depression.
The Mediterranean diet mainly consists of ingredients such as fresh vegetables and fruit, beans, nuts and olive oil, along with occasional helpings of fish, dairy and poultry.
Studies conducted in both Spain and America found those who followed this way of eating were noticeably more uplifted and that women in the US became more aggravated after eating red meat and fast food.
It is thought Mediterranean food lowers levels of inflammation, which as a result reduces the emission of a compound in the brain called the neurotrophic factor. Levels of this factor are linked to depression, therefore it's clear to see why participants in the research who stuck to the diet were overall more positive in mood.
Do you like the sound of this? If so, here's some quick and easy ways to adapt your food intake to fit the colourful Mediterranean lifestyle.
Firstly, up your vegetable intake. For example a simple plate of sliced tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and mixed with either feta or mozzarella cheese will make a nutritious and tasty lunch. You'll see this as a starter in Italian restaurants and it's so easy to rustle up, why not try it yourself? Also get into the habit of adding more vegetables to your other meals, such as a pizza or pasta.
This doesn't mean you have to cut out meat, but you will find eating leaner options will give a better result. Mix it up with a salad or a stew with veg and beans in the winter. If you eat seafood, fit it into your eating regime around twice a week if you can. Shellfish such as mussels help stimulate your brain and heart health, which will lead to a happier mood.
To incorporate the nuts and seeds into your diet make sure you don't skip breakfast, as this is the most important meal of the day whether you're following a Mediterranean diet or not. Natural yoghurt with a sprinkling of these and a dollop of honey will keep you going for longer and not leave you feeling as bloated as you would after eating cereal or toast.
Enjoy your dairy products and fats, but not excessively and using the best quality options. Extra-virgin olive oil will give your food a better taste and is healthier overall, and when it comes to cheese opt for a low-fat alternative.
Lastly, fill yourself up on fruit. Swap that chocolate bar after dinner for a bowl of strawberries or grapes. They're more refreshing to eat and you won't feel bad after finishing a whole punnet (the same can't be said about a whole pack of biscuits...).
