The Mediterranean diet enjoys a prestigious position across the globe, often named one of the world’s most healthy diets. Many people are confused as to why, however. Aren’t Mediterranean diets, especially Italian cuisine, rich in pasta, pizza, and other fatty and starchy foods? Turns out there is more than meets the eye (or tongue!) during an authentic Italian meal.

The Benefits of Choosing a Heart-Healthy Diet

The Mediterranean diet is often characterized as a “heart-healthy diet.” According to the American Heart Association, the Mediterranean diet follows its official dietary recommendations quite closely. For example, people on the Mediterranean diet eat a lot less saturated fat than those on typical American diets.