When looking for a fat burning diet, the Mediterranean diet is a great option. Focusing on whole foods, closest to their natural form, it provides  a wholesome method of eating that is flavorful and non-restrictive. Modifying some of your current eating methods, to match this lifestyle will help to lower your cholesterol, lower your risk of heart disease, and can help decrease your risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. For those looking to lose weight, this is a great fat burning diet. It is high in fiber, lean protein, and fruits and vegetables. Here are some tips to incorporate a Mediterranean diet into your lifestyle.

1. Increase your fruit and vegetable intake. Make fresh fruits and vegetables the primary part of your diet. You should aim to intake seven to ten servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily. Including a variety is important, due to the fact that it varies the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that different fruits and vegetables have to offer.

2. Eat only lean protein. Avoid eating red meat and pork if possible. Red meat is full of saturated fat, and high in calories. High amounts of saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels, and cause weight gain. Lean protein, such as fish and lean poultry is a better option and can help you to lose weight.

3. Increase your whole grain intake. Although some people think that whole grains aren’t a part of a fat burning diet, whole grains are essential to weight loss. They contain protein and fiber, which helps to keep you full. Eating grains that aren’t processed will help to keep your blood sugar levels moderated and will decrease surges of insulin being released which can promote storage of fat.

4. Eat healthy fats. Eating a lower fat diet is beneficial when you are seeking to lose weight, however some fat in your diet is necessary for cell reproduction and for proper bodily functioning. Choose to eat monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and omega-3′s instead of saturated fats and trans fats. Nuts, olive oil, and fish are great sources of healthy fats. Avoid butter, red meat, and full fat dairy products to rid your diet of saturated fat. Trans fats should be avoided entirely.

5. Decrease your full-fat dairy intake. As was mentioned above, full fat dairy products are full of saturated fat. Eliminating these foods from your lifestyle is key when incorporation this fat burning diet into your regimen.

Eating a Mediterranean diet, along with exercising regularly is a great way to lose weight, stay healthy, and improve your quality of life.