This is a good question. Studies have shown that for someone wishing to lose weight and to control cholesterol more effectively, a plant based vegan mediterranean diet seems to work better than a regular mediterranean diet which incorporates some meat,chicken, fish , dairy etc. Nevertheless, I still say it depends on an individual. Everyone is different. I think balance is the key. I do believe going mostly plant based is important. But i also believe small portions and limited times to eat a bit of meat or fish or even dairy will not be problematic in many people. So, as with everything, it depends.