Italian researchers have found that adherence to a Mediterranean diet is associated with lower levels of inflammation markers that are linked with increased risk of coronary heart disease.
It is believed inflammation is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Platelet (PLT) and white blood cell (WBC) counts are two markers of inflammation and have been linked to the risk for cardiovascular disease. The Mediterranean diet has also been associated with less inflammation and reduced risk of several chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
In this study that was published in the Journal of the American Society of Hematology, the investigators set out to evaluate the effect of the Mediterranean diet on platelet and white blood cell counts. Their research included 14,586 individuals from the Moli-sani study, a large epidemiological population study in the Molise region in Italy that is focusing on the mechanism of inflammation.
The results showed that individuals who had a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet had lower levels of PLT and WBC counts compared to those with lower adherence rates. It is noted that dietary antioxidants such as those found in olive oil, wine and vegetables and also dietary fiber partially accounted for this association.
Related Articles
Apr. 30, 2024
Scientific Review Links Med Diet Adherence With Improved Urological Health
Researchers reviewed almost 1,000 studies to determine the associations between following the Mediterranean diet and improved urological and sexual health outcomes.
Apr. 9, 2024
Processed Foods Associated with Negative Health Outcomes, Study Finds
Consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with a greater risk of more than 30 negative health outcomes.
May. 7, 2024
Mediterranean Diet and Exercise Associated with Better Gut Health in Older Adults
The study demonstrated these improvements to gut health yielded significant cardiovascular health benefits in older Mediterranean adults.
Oct. 13, 2024
Mediterranean Diet Adherence Linked to Lower Risk of Atrial Fibrillation
A recent study has described the Mediterranean diet as a robust preventative strategy against the development of atrial fibrillation, potentially due to its polyphenols.
Nov. 27, 2023
Mediterranean Diet Helps Slow Age-Related Physical Decline, Study Finds
New research has shown that following a reduced-calorie Mediterranean diet and increasing physical activity slows age-associated muscle loss and reduces total and visceral fat.
Dec. 5, 2023
EU Project Aims to Level the Playing Field with Processed Foods
The MedDiet4All project promotes the benefits of a Mediterranean diet and communicates the adverse health effects of ultra-processed foods.
Jan. 8, 2024
Mediterranean Diet Tops List for Seventh Year
The U.S. News & World Report cited the diet's variety, flexibility and health benefits.
Sep. 12, 2024
Low-Carb Mediterranean Diet Aids Diabetes Patients in Achieving Remission
A review found that a low-carbohydrate Mediterranean diet was more effective in helping type 2 diabetes patients achieve remission compared to a low-fat or traditional Mediterranean diet.