Macro partitioning
Adherence to a traditional Mediterranean dietary pattern is associated with reduced overall mortality and lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
Adopt a dietary pattern rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and whole grains, using olive oil (or local healthy oils like mustard/rice bran oil) as the primary fat source. Limit red meat and processed foods. If you drink alcohol, do so moderately with meals, preferably wine, though this may not apply to all populations. Focus on the overall pattern rather than single nutrients.
Collectively, these studies have indicated convincing inverse associations with overall mortality [6] and with the incidence of coronary heart disease [7] and thrombotic stroke [8]... There have also been randomized trials supporting a beneficial role of the Mediterranean diet on the incidence of cardiovascular events [15] and of survival from coronary heart disease [16].
Why this rating
Supported by landmark randomized trials (PREDIMED, Lyon Diet Heart Study) and extensive observational cohorts (EPIC, Seven Countries Study).
Source
Definitions and potential health benefits of the Mediterranean diet: views from experts around the world
Antonia Trichopoulou et al. · BMC Medicine · 2014
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