Slimmers told to follow 'tasty' diet plan to lose weight - but they must ditch one food group

The Mediterranean diet plan may be healthy but it certainly isn't restrictive, meaning slimmers should be able to stick to it more easily.

Nutritionist at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor Vinny Kodamala shared why the plan is "great" for weight loss.

She said: “The Mediterranean diet is great for anyone looking to lose weight or simply improve their overall health.

"While some people may find it difficult to give up the unhealthy processed foods they’ve come to enjoy, the Mediterranean diet offers some incredibly tasty meals, such as Mediterranean roast vegetables, tuna pasta or three bean salad.”

How does it work?

The plan focuses on eating foods that are easily accessible in Mediterranean countries, such as fresh fruits, vegetables and fish. Processed foods are a no-no, however, which may be why the plan is so successful for many.

The doctor continued: "The traditional diets of people in [Mediterranean countries] consist primarily of hearty green vegetables, fruits, nuts, cereals, lentils and legumes, with olive oil serving as a primary source of fat and protein coming from fresh fish and yoghurt.

“One of the biggest factors that makes this diet so powerful is its rejection of processed foods.

"For example, most sugar in the Mediterranean diet comes from fresh fruit and honey is used to sweeten other foods.

"Just using honey as a sweetener over granulated sugar can make a massive difference to your health. Honey is a great source of protective plant compounds (polyphenols), has a lower glycemic index than sugar, as well as potential anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antioxidant properties."

Processed and sugary foods may be convenient, but they are often packed full of unhealthy ingredients and hidden calories.

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Choosing whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish will ensure slimmers get plenty of fibre and protein without overeating.

This comes as a nutritionist shared the benefits of eating high-protein foods as this can "work wonders" for weight loss. He said: "Protein has been relegated to an afterthought for many of us, believing that it is only something worth considering if you are a hulking great bodybuilder or standing barely clothed ready for a photo shoot for a popular health magazine.

"The health and fitness industry has unfortunately fed into this trope and it has led to a reputation which does dietary protein a terrible disservice.

"The truth is, dietary protein is probably the greatest, and most underrated, element of our diet that can uphold our health, make weight loss and maintaining that loss relatively seamless and help us to retain if not develop lean muscle mass."