Macro partitioning
High adherence to the Mediterranean diet is characterized by a macronutrient profile with lower carbohydrate (46-49%) and higher protein (19-22%) and fat (31-33%) intake compared to standard recommendations, which is significantly associated with lower adiposity and inflammation.
If you follow a Mediterranean-style diet, focus on keeping carbohydrates on the lower end of the recommended range (around 46-49% of calories) while ensuring adequate protein (19-22%) and healthy fats (31-33%). This specific balance is linked to lower body fat and reduced inflammation compared to standard high-carb interpretations of the diet.
H-MD is characterised by lower carbohydrate, higher protein and fat intakes than those usually reported in nutritional recommendations. This profile was significantly associated with lower adiposity and inflammation.
Why this rating
Large cross-sectional sample (n=1342) with rigorous dietary assessment (7-day food records) and clinical biomarkers, though causality cannot be established.
Source
Actual macronutrient composition of the Mediterranean diet and its association with adiposity and inflammation: a cross-sectional real-life study
Claudia Vetrani et al. · Journal of Translational Medicine · 2025
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