Mediterranean Diet and Obesity-related Disorders: What is the Evidence?

Abstract

Purpose of Review Obesity is a chronic disease, a major public health problem due to its association with non-communicable diseases and all-cause mortality. Indeed, people with obesity are at increased risk for a variety of obesity-related disorders including hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and several cancers. Many popular diets with very different macronutrient composition, including the Mediterranean diet (MD), have been used, proposed, and studied for prevention and management of obesity. In particular, MD has been the subject of countless studies over the years and now boasts a large body of scientific literature. In this review, we aimed to update current knowledge by summarizing the most recent evidence on the effect of MD on obesity and obesity-related disorders. Recent Findings The negative effects of obesity are partly reversed by substantial weight loss that can be achieved with MD, especially when low-calorie and in combination with adequate physical activity. In addition, the composition of MD has been correlated with an excellent effect on reducing dyslipidemia. It also positively modulates the gut microbiota and immune system, significantly decreasing inflammatory mediators, a common ground for many obesity-related disorders. Summary People with obesity are at increased risk for a variety of medical disorders including hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, there is an inevitable need for measures to manage obesity and its related disorders. At this point, MD has been proposed as a valuable nutritional intervention. It is characterized by a high consumption of vegetables, fruit, nuts, cereals, whole grains, and extra virgin olive oil, as well as a moderate consumption of fish and poultry, and a limited intake of sweets, red meat, and dairy products. MD proves to be the healthiest dietary pattern available to tackle obesity and prevent several non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Ulvophyte Green Algae Caulerpa lentillifera: Metabolites Profile and Antioxidant, Anticancer, Anti-Obesity, and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Properties

“…This study intended to explore the metabolites profile and the antioxidant, anti-obesity, anticancer, and in vitro cytotoxicity of fractionated ethanol extract of C. lentillifera , ulvophyte green algae. The Mediterranean diet that has been recognized worldwide is associated with a reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, obesity, stroke, and other non-communicable diseases [ 18 , 19 ]. This lower risk is universally ascribed to a high intake of vegetables and fruits and, thus, high consumption of phytochemicals, including marine products.…”

Ketogenic Diet as Medical Prescription in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

“…One of the main dietary interventions evaluated in women with PCOS is the Mediterranean diet (MD), which has proven to have anti-inflammatory effect and help decrease body weight [11,18]. The MD is based on the regular consumption of fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, as well as unsaturated fats, carbohydrates with a low GI, and a moderate intake of animal protein [1].…”

Obesity and Its Related Diseases: A New Escalating Alarming in Global Health

“…per week (WHO, 2021). Practice of Mediterranean diet, such as whole grains, healthy fats and protein sources, fruits and vegetables, seafood, beans, nuts and healthy beverages can prevent obesity and obesity related diseases (Muscogiuri et al, 2022).…”