Mediterranean Foods Are the Secret to Weight Loss

The people in the Mediterranean may have the secret weapon to healthy living -- and it's all in their diet.

A recent study showed that Mediterranean diets can prevent and fight obesity. The foods of the islands include high amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids from olives and olive oils. Mediterranean diets also include daily consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy, all of which are necessary for fat loss.

Additionally, the diet is rich in fish, poultry, tree nuts and legumes but does not usually include unhealthy and fattening red meat.

The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, said the diet also demonstrated positive effects on waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These factors are linked to diabetes and heart disease.

"This current study adds to current findings that lifestyle does matter," Dr. Lisa Jackson, spokesperson for the American College of Cardiology, told AOL Health.

Even the moderate consumption of alcohol with meals that is common in the Mediterranean is beneficial for health.

"A healthy diet can help people lose weight if they need to or maintain weight loss and improve or prevent elevations in blood pressure," said Jackson. "Often patients feel better eating a healthy diet together with regular physical activity."

Visit AOL Health to learn more about Mediterranean diets.