Research done by scientists from all over the world confirm the obvious. The long life and good health of the Mediterranean people is due to their nutrition and lifestyle. The consumption of complex carbohydrates, vegetables and fruit in combination with the limited consumption of red meat result in avoiding several severe illnesses. Justly, Mediterranean nutrition is considered by specialists as "the cure to illnesses of the consumption era".

Rice and pulses are essential ingredients in the Mediterranean cuisine and can be found at the basis of the nutritional pyramid.