The Mediterranean diet, associated with many health benefits for adults, may also be beneficial for children’s heart health.
- A study shows that incorporating the Mediterranean diet for at least eight weeks is significantly associated with a reduction in blood pressure and total cholesterol in children.
- “Early eating habits significantly influence long-term health outcomes” such as heart attacks, strokes and diabetes, the study’s lead author said in an email to CNN.
- Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3 and fiber, the Mediterranean diet is characterized by its richness in plant-based foods.
The Mediterranean diet, already hailed for its benefits for adults, may also contribute to heart health in children, according to a new study published in the review JAMA Network Open.
Hypertension, diabetes… reducing the risks from a young age
This analysis was conducted by combining nine previous studies involving 577 participants aged 3 to 18 years. It shows that incorporating the Mediterranean diet for at least eight weeks is significantly associated with a reduction in blood pressure and total cholesterol in children. According to the authors, these results support that adopting healthy eating habits from an early age can help prevent cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which often appear during childhood.
“Early eating habits significantly influence long-term health outcomes“such as heart attacks, strokes and diabetes,” he said in an email to CNN the study’s lead author, Dr. José Francisco López-Gil.The main takeaway for parents is the importance of promoting a diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats to optimize their children’s health and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.”
Mediterranean diet: what does it contain?
Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3 and fiber, the Mediterranean diet is characterized by its richness in plant-based foods: seasonal fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, legumes, whole grains, olive oil. Fish and white meats have their place from time to time on the plate. Conversely, this diet strongly limits the consumption of red meat, dairy products and processed products.
