The effects of the Mediterranean Diet on Chronic Diseases: Cardiovascular Diseases, Oxidative Stress, Dyslipidemia, Diabetes Mellitus, Blood Pressure, Cancer, Neurodegenerative Disease and Obesity

Abstract

Poor dietary habits lead to the emergence of chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, cancer, dementia, obesity and oxidative stress involved through the aggression of cells by free radicals, Knowing that these diseases cause a global burden both individually and economically, Several studies focus on the relationship between diet and chronic disease. Studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet, (MD) traditional eating habits and lifestyle specific to the Mediterranean region, reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve longevity. The MD is known to be one of the healthiest diets, this diet is based on herbs, spices, vegetables, fruits, olive oils, cereals (preferably whole grains), legumes and nuts, fish and shellfish, white meat, so the main source of dietary fat from MD is olive oil. Moderate consumption of eggs and dairy products, and reduced consumption of red meats, processed meats and foods rich in sugars and fats. MD has a beneficial fatty acid profile with a higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MSFA) and a higher MSFA / saturated fatty acid (SFA) ratio than non-Mediterranean diets. High consumption of dietary fiber. a low glycemic index, anti-inflammatory effects, and antioxidant compounds, can work together to produce favorable effects on health status. MD is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as: vitamin B (B1, B2, niacin, B6, folate and B12) and antioxidant vitamins (vitamins E and C), and polyphenol, flavonoids, phytosterols, n-fatty acids 3 (alpha linoleic acid), resveratrol, quercetin, oleic acid, carotenoids and lutein. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the current state of science regarding the relationship between the traditional Mediterranean diet and lifestyle related chronic diseases, and discuss the mechanisms involved and opportunities. in this area of research, to clarify and increase the confidence of the role of nutrition in the etiology of chronic diseases.