The Mediterranean diet has long been regarded as a heart-healthy option, but a new study has found the diet may help lower the risk of death.For the study, published in JAMA Network Open Friday, researchers examined 25,315 women over 25 years, finding a higher adherence to the diet was associated with a 23% reduced risk of all-cause mortality. Decreased risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality were also noted.
Data analysis occurred from 2018 to 2023, using medical and death records to determine mortality and cause of death.'Participants with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet generally exhibited healthier lifestyles, including lower BMI and higher intake of fruits, nuts, whole grains, legumes, and fish, while consuming less red and processed meat,' the authors note. 'A higher Mediterranean diet score was associated with an overall healthier biomarker profile.