According to a recent study, adhering to the Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce a woman’s chance of mortality by almost 25%. The researchers in Australia found that this nutritious eating plan can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease by 24% and coronary heart disease by 25%.

Mediterranean diet reduces the consumption of saturated fats harmful to the heart

In addition to these benefits, the popular diet can also lower the overall risk of stroke and the probability of death from any cause by 23%. The diet mainly consists of wholesome foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, nuts, and extra virgin olive oil, which are loaded with several healthy components like polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, nitrates, and fiber.

According to researchers, following the Mediterranean diet can considerably reduce the consumption of saturated fats that can damage the heart, such as red meat, butter, and dairy products. To assess the effects of this diet on women’s cardiovascular health and mortality risk, experts examined multiple studies. Their investigation involved scrutinizing 16 reports released from 2003 to 2021.

Mediterranean diet can lower cardiovascular disease risk by 24%

Over 700,000 women above 18 years old were monitored for an average of 12.5 years in studies conducted mainly in the United States and Europe. The findings indicate that adherence to the Mediterranean diet can decrease the chance of cardiovascular disease by 24%, lower the probability of all-cause mortality by 23%, and reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 25%. Additionally, individuals were less likely to suffer from a stroke. Nonetheless, the specific reasons why this diet is particularly advantageous for women to remain uncertain.

A recent study led by Dr. Sarah Zaman from the University of Sydney indicates that the reasons behind the sex-specific impact of the Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular disease and mortality are not fully understood. As stated in a press release, female-specific cardiovascular hazards, such as early menopause, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia, or conditions more prevalent in women, such as systemic lupus, can all result in an independent increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease.