Women who eat a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, whole grains and legumes could reduce their risk of death by nearly a quarter over the next 25 years, new research suggests.
The Harvard-led analysis, published online May 31, 2024 in JAMA Network Open, followed 25,315 women (with an average age of 55 at the start of the study) for an average of 25 years. At the start of the study, the women completed dietary questionnaires and provided blood samples. Researchers assessed the women's dietary patterns and measured blood markers related to metabolism, inflammation levels, insulin resistance, and various lipids linked to cardiovascular health. About 3,900 women died during the follow-up period, and researchers identified the cause of death from medical records.
Participants who adhered to the Mediterranean diet were up to 23% less likely to die during the study's follow-up period than those who did not. The researchers also found evidence of biological changes associated with a lower risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease in the women who adhered to the Mediterranean eating plan. The researchers suggested that these changes may help explain the increased lifespan.
Image: © Westend61/Getty Images
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
