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The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been extensively researched for the past seventy years and has been found to be effective in preventing chronic-degenerative diseases. This dietary pattern is abundant in plant foods, whole grains, legumes, fish, among other foods, and its hallmark is the use of olive oil as its major source of fat. A recent review focused on the numerous beneficial effects of the MedDiet at advanced ages and reaffirmed its protective action, together with pharmacological treatment, against most of the chronic-degenerative diseases found in old age. Despite this, the principles of the MedDiet have been gradually abandoned in recent decades, even in Mediterranean countries, and people have transitioned towards diets rich in ultra-processed, high-calorie, and low-fiber foods. The review’s authors urge governments both of high-income and developing countries to encourage the production and consumption of foods present in the original MedDiet and argue that doing so would lead to a reduction in chronic-degenerative diseases and consequently a decrease in health care spending.
In this regard, the College of Family Physicians of Canada has just updated its clinical practice guidelines on lipid management in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) for primary care. These new guidelines point to the MedDiet as the dietary pattern especially recommended to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide.
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