What benefits have been observed from a Mediterranean-style diet for cardiovascular disease prevention?
Studies have suggested that a Mediterranean-style diet can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The PREDIMED Study found that a Mediterranean-style diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts had a positive effect on primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. A Cochrane Database System Review also found that a Mediterranean-style diet was beneficial for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, a JACC State-of-the-Art Review found that salt reduction was an effective way to prevent hypertension and cardiovascular disease.