3 Common Mistakes That Sabotage the Mediterranean Diet

Throughout the years, researchers have studied a variety of diets and food philosophies for different health benefits. When it comes to overall benefits, the Mediterranean diet often comes out on top, helping to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.

The Mediterranean diet refers to the traditional eating patterns of countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, such as coastal parts of Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and Libya. These areas tend to consume higher amounts of fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, fish, seafood, and healthy fats like olive oil — and lower amounts of red meat, processed foods, and added sugars. Learn more about the Mediterranean diet.

References

American Heart Association. (2019). Alcohol and heart health.

American Heart Association. (2020). Mediterranean diet.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Alcohol use and your health.

Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (2025). Dietary Guidelines.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Brian Clista, MD

Dr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.

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