A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reviewed nine randomised clinical trials (RCTs) involving 577 participants aged 3 to 18 years. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on children and adolescents, focusing on various health markers. The trials included children with excess weight, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, prediabetes, and apparently healthy children. MedDiet interventions varied, with some groups receiving dietary prescriptions and others receiving nutritional education.

The findings showed that MedDiet interventions were significantly associated with reductions in systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels compared to control groups. Additionally, HDL cholesterol levels increased among those following the MedDiet. However, the diet did not show a significant impact on glucose levels or insulin resistance. These results suggest that the MedDiet can be beneficial for improving certain cardiometabolic biomarkers in young populations.

Source: JAMA Network