The Mediterranean Diet in the Era of Climate Change: A Reference Diet for Human and Planetary Health

Abstract

Nowadays, climate change constitutes an enormous global threat for human health and environmental sustainability. The expanding world population and the increased global need for food production have an important negative impact upon the environment. Diet can link human health with environmental sustainability. Food production systems are closely related to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and the aggravation of climate change, and current Western-type, animal-based dietary patterns may lead to adverse environmental footprints. In this present narrative review, we address the interconnection of the Mediterranean diet (MD) with climate change and sustainability. The MD is a highly recommended dietary intervention for the prevention and management of various endocrine and cardiometabolic diseases. Beyond its evidence-based, health-promoting effects, it also has a beneficial environmental impact, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing biodiversity, food security, and sustainability. Based on the evidence reviewed herein, the MD should be incorporated within the framework of a “One Health” model, which involves the improvement not only of human health but also of planetary health and food system sustainability. Our review aims to provide a stimulus for health professionals to strongly recommend the implementation of the MD under the current pressure of climate change, despite all barriers, targeting both human health preservation and planetary well-being.