 in part by improving the function of the endothelial cells that line blood vessels. The review pooled results from 14 randomized controlled trials, including data for 1,930 participants. The ability of arteries to dilate in response to increased blood flow improved in individuals put on a Mediterranean-style diet. This response was consistent across different types of interventions and study designs and durations, and was independent of the health status, BMI, or age of participants.){kind=link}
Photography Image © eranicle | Getty Images
A systematic review and meta-analysis published recently in The Journal of Nutrition concluded that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet may help prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in part by improving the function of the endothelial cells that line blood vessels. The review pooled results from 14 randomized controlled trials, including data for 1,930 participants. The ability of arteries to dilate in response to increased blood flow improved in individuals put on a Mediterranean-style diet. This response was consistent across different types of interventions and study designs and durations, and was independent of the health status, BMI, or age of participants.
This study suggests that consuming a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern may reduce risk of developing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), the dominant cause of CVD. A Mediterranean-style diet is characterized by the high consumption of olive oil, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts/seeds, and unrefined grains; moderate-to-high consumption of fish; and low consumption of red meat and sugar-sweetened products such as sweets, cakes, and pastries.