Macro partitioning

Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) prevents obesity and reduces cardiometabolic risk in children and adults, whereas adoption of Western diets (high in saturated fats, refined carbs, and processed meats) accelerates obesity epidemics.

Adopt a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern: prioritize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil; consume fish and poultry moderately; and minimize red meat, sweets, and processed foods. This approach is cost-effective, transferable to non-Mediterranean regions by substituting local equivalents, and is the most effective dietary strategy for preventing obesity and cardiometabolic disease in both children and adults.