Mediterraneans generally have high intakes of fruits, vegetables, legumes and cereals; moderate intakes of alcohol and dairy products and low consumption of meat and meat products. It is believed the health benefits of the diet come mainly from the high intakes of monounsaturated fat (olive oil), dietary fibre and non-nutrient plant components such as antioxidants in fruit and vegetables. So next time you make a salad, splash away to your heart’s content ( and good health!) by adding some extra-virgin olive oil. Better still, dip away into the dressing with ciabatta bread, and finish your meal with grapes or wine.

A word about the French diet and the French Paradox. The French drink wine, love cheese, butter and pastries, but they don’t get fat and they don’t have the same rates of heart disease or cancer as other modern western countries. The traditional French diet is also high in fresh organic plant foods. French author Mireille Guiliano, of the book French Women Don’t Get Fat, believes the secret is in the traditional manner with which the French eat – slow and sensual. The French apparently eat for pleasure rather than obsess about what they shouldn’t be eating. The French are also more active preferring to cycle or walk instead of using cars.