Mediterranean Diet Linked to Improved Endothelial Function

Consumption of a Mediterranean diet (MD) was associated with small but significant decreases in systolic blood pressure and improved endothelial function, according to a recent study.

Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial in which 166 participants aged 64 years or older were randomly assigned to consumption of an MD or habitual diet for 6 months. The MD consisted of plant foods, extra-virgin olive oil, and minimal red meat and processed foods. Of the 166,137 participants completed the study.
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Home blood pressure was measured for 5 days at baseline, then again at 3 and 6 months. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was used to assess endothelial function at baseline and 6 months.

Overall, adherence to an MD was associated with lower systolic blood pressure at 3 months and  at 6 months. At 6 months, percentage of FMD was higher by 1.3% in the MD group.

“Australian men and women who consumed a [Mediterranean diet] for 6 months had small but significantly lower systolic blood pressure and improved endothelial function,” the researchers concluded.

—Michael Potts

Davis CR, Hodgson JM, Woodman R, et al. A Mediterranean diet lowers blood pressure and improves endothelial function: results from the MedLey randomized intervention trial [published online April 19, 2017]. Am J Clin Nutr. doi: 10.3945/​ajcn.116.146803.