Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is more than a Mediterranean food pattern. It is a lifestyle of the population surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. It includes its cultural heritage, cuisine, agriculture, and social habits regarding food (commensality and conviviality). Foods of plant origin dominate the MD, with moderate consumption of fermented dairy, fish and low consumption of meat, mainly white (poultry and rabbit). MD is a healthy diet that helps prevent the onset of chronic noncommunicable diseases. In addition, MD is a sustainable diet that respects the environment and preserves biodiversity.