Which statement best describes the Mediterranean diet?

• A. Very high content of saturated fats
• B. Low in fiber
• C. High in grains, fruits and vegetables
• D. Moderate protein only

Answer: (D)

The Mediterranean diet is defined by an emphasis on plant-based foods and healthy fats, with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, plus frequent fish and moderate dairy, and limited red meat. This pattern yields a diet high in fiber and healthy unsaturated fats, not saturated fats.

So the best way to describe it is that it is high in grains, fruits and vegetables. The other statements don’t fit: the diet isn’t characterized by very high saturated fats; it isn’t low in fiber, since plant foods provide substantial fiber; and protein isn’t limited to a moderate, exclusive source—it comes from a mix of fish, legumes, and other plant-based proteins in addition to dairy and occasional meat.