The collective cuisine and nutritional trends of Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece are known as the Mediterranean diet. Nutritional analysis of the Mediterranean diet suggests that it may be a healthy and balanced source of nutrition for the body, and some organizations, as well as doctors, recommend that patients consider incorporating aspects of the Mediterranean diet into their lives. When eaten in moderation, the dishes that characterize Mediterranean cuisine are flavorful and quite healthy. As is the case with any dietary change, people who are considering a radical switch should consult their doctors for guidance.

Several things characterize the Mediterranean diet. The first is the comparatively high consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with lots of bread. Grains, nuts, and seeds are also a very important part of the Mediterranean diet. One of the primary sources of cooking and flavoring fat is olive oil, which is a good fat in moderation, since it is a monounsaturated fat. Especially in Greek cuisine, high levels of cheese and yogurt are consumed, but dairy consumption is otherwise moderate, along with intake of fish and poultry. Red meat is relatively rare, as are eggs and sweets. The diet also includes generally moderate consumption of wine.

There are numerous benefits to following a Mediterranean style diet. The first is that the diet is high in antioxidants and other heart healthy compounds. The diet also tends to lower cholesterol, especially when olive oil and animal products are eaten in moderation and butter is avoided almost entirely. Some people also claim that the Mediterranean diet makes them feel more energetic and generally healthy.

Since multiple continents and scores of nations border the Mediterranean, there are a wide range of dishes to choose from when cooking within the bounds of a Mediterranean diet, from Moroccan B'stilla to Italian grilled sardines. Many cookbooks focusing on the Mediterranean diet are available, and they often integrate food from several regions, which may include similar ingredients, but they are spiced and assembled totally differently.

Although the Mediterranean diet tends to be healthier, it is possible to make it unhealthy. Eating moderate portions and using fats efficiently are an important part of eating well. Many dietitians encourage their patients to snack on fruits and vegetables, rather than starches, and to get a handle on more modestly sized portions, often by using smaller plates or through weighing food. When sensible general nutrition is combined with the Mediterranean diet, the diet can be an effective way to stay healthy.