Mediterranean diet in cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental health: a narrative review
Mediterranean diet in cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental health: a narrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47187/cssn.Vol17.Iss1.509Keywords:
Mediterranean Diet, cardiovascular health, metabolism, mental healthAbstract
Introduction: The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been recognized as a healthy dietary pattern associated with the prevention and management of chronic diseases, as well as improvements in mental health and quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the impact of the Mediterranean Diet on various physical and mental health parameters through a narrative review of recent scientific literature. Methodology: A bibliographic search was conducted in specialized databases, selecting original studies and review articles that met criteria of relevance, methodological quality, and thematic pertinence. Data extraction was performed considering study design, population, intervention, and main outcomes. Results: The findings indicate that greater adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, more effective glycemic control, a lower incidence of depressive disorders, and improved cognitive function. Furthermore, benefits were identified in inflammatory markers, lipid profile, and body weight management. Discussion: The discussion integrates these findings within a multidimensional framework, highlighting that the Mediterranean Diet functions not only as a dietary strategy but also as a lifestyle that includes physical activity, social habits, and sustainable consumption patterns. Although limitations related to the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies were acknowledged, the findings support the promotion of the Mediterranean Diet as an effective and safe intervention. Conclusions: The analyzed evidence reaffirms that the Mediterranean Diet constitutes a comprehensive tool for prevention and treatment, with clinical and public health relevance, and the potential to be adapted to different cultural contexts.
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