Mediterranean diet and its association with cardiovascular disease risk factors

Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and is interrelated to stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) has been closely associated with reduced CVD morbidity and mortality, but research is not well explored for this relationship in individuals with diabetes (who experience greater CVD morbidity and mortality than individuals without diabetes).
A review explored the literature related to the MedDiet and atherosclerosis and associated risk factors in individuals with and without diabetes. In total, 570 articles were identified, and 36 articles were included.
Clinical studies revealed the MedDiet was associated with improved biomarkers, plaque, and anthropometric measurements that are associated with atherosclerosis and CVD. Observational studies identified associations between the MedDiet and lower presence of atherosclerosis, improved vascular aging, and increased endothelial progenitor cells. However, most of the studies took place in Mediterranean countries.
Further research is needed to better understand the long-term effects the Med-Diet on atherosclerosis and its associated risk factors in diverse populations to include individuals with and without diabetes.
Source: Richardson LA, Izuora K, Basu A. Mediterranean Diet and Its Association with Cardiovascu-lar Disease Risk Factors: A Scoping Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Oct 6;19(19):12762.