Are you looking for a heart-healthy meal plan? Following the Mediterranean diet may lower your risk of heart disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, the Mediterranean diet has been associated with a lower level of the “bad” cholesterol that is more likely to build up deposits in your arteries. Not only will eating healthy help improve your overall health, but making these small changes to your diet may be linked to a lower risk of cancer, as well as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Interested? The Mediterranean diet incorporates the basics of eating healthy. The diet typically consists of eating whole grains and trying to avoid consuming unhealthy trans fats. While nuts are a part of the Mediterranean diet, they may be high in fat and should be eaten in moderation. Check out these other guidelines:

  • Eating primarily plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain, legumes and nuts
  • Replacing butter with healthy fats such as olive oil and canola oil
  • Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods
  • Limiting red meat to no more than twice a week
  • Enjoying meals with family and friends
  • Drinking red wine in moderation
  • Getting plenty of exercise
Ready to try the Mediterranean diet? Check out this recipe for Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint
  What you will need:
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup packed fresh mint leaves
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Sea salt
  • 12 small rib lamb chops (about 2 1/3 pounds)
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
How to prepare:

Preheat a grill to medium high. Mix the olive oil, mint, red pepper flakes, and salt to taste in a bowl. Rub the lamb chops all over with the garlic. Transfer a few tablespoons of the mint oil to a small bowl and brush on the chops.

Grill the chips until charred, 3-4 minutes per side. (Press the middle of a chip with your finger; it should be slightly firm with a little give for medium-rare doneness.) Transfer to a platter and brush with some of the remaining mint oil. Sprinkle with mint and serve with more mint oil.


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