The Mediterranean diet has long been applauded for its health benefits, including positive impacts on heart health,
bone strength and diabetes management – and it’s earned the title of “No. 1 Best Diet Overall” for a reason. But how does the diet fare for losing weight?
When used with intention, experts say that the Mediterranean diet can support healthy weight loss.
However, because weight loss is dependent on expending more energy than you are taking in – or, burning more calories than you consume – this eating style alone does not guarantee a new number on the scale.
Rather than dedicating one hour to a HIIT training and calling it a day, the Mediterranean diet encourages regular, more consistent movement throughout the day.
The more movement we incorporate on a day-to-day basis, the more likely we burn calories and slim down.
Further, nourishing your body with lean proteins and whole grains – hallmarks of the Mediterranean diet – can increase your energy levels and help ward off cravings for a less nutritious snack.
Diets that are very low in carbohydrates or very low in fats can be effective in promoting weight loss, but, in my experience, people get tired of the restrictions.
I've found that a Mediterranean diet pattern is one that people find easier to adopt as a long-term behavior change.