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Mediterranean Diet
Traditional dietary pattern of olive oil-rich Mediterranean populations characterized by high intake of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish, and moderate wine, with low intake of red and processed meats.
Also: MeD, MedDiet
The PREDIMED trial demonstrated ~30% reduction in major cardiovascular events with Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts in high-CVD-risk adults. Mechanisms include omega-3 and monounsaturated fat profile, polyphenols, fiber, and likely microbiome modulation. MedDiet adherence is also associated with lower diabetes incidence, cognitive decline (MIND variant), and all-cause mortality.
How each textbook covers it
Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 33
Validated in the PREDIMED trial to reduce major cardiovascular events by ~30% in high-risk adults. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties attributed to monounsaturated fat, omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and fiber. Used as an MNT pattern for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, NAFLD, and certain cancers, and as a benchmark in dietary pattern research.
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 108: Dietary Patterns
The PREDIMED trial demonstrated ~30% reduction in major cardiovascular events with Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts in high-CVD-risk adults. Mechanisms include omega-3 and monounsaturated fat profile, polyphenols, fiber, and likely microbiome modulation. MedDiet adherence is also associated with lower diabetes incidence, cognitive decline (MIND variant), and all-cause mortality.
Related terms
Antiinflammatory Diet, Cardiovascular Disease, DASH Diet, DASH diet, MIND diet, Olive oil, Polyphenols