Weight Loss, Not Mediterranean Diet Quality Alone, Linked to Reduced Inflammation in Study
A randomized controlled trial has indicated that weight loss achieved during intermittent fasting, rather than the quality of the Mediterranean diet alone, is associated with lower inflammation. The study explored the mechanisms behind the Mediterranean diet's health benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory effects. Fifty-three adults with metabolic risk factors, with an average age of 55, were assigned to either a fully provided Mediterranean diet rich in extra virgin olive oil, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, or their usual Western diet for eight weeks. During this initial phase, energy intake was adjusted to maintain stable body weight. While the Mediterranean diet reduced triglyceride levels by 22% and total and LDL cholesterol by 6% and 7% respectively, it did not significantly alter high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a primary marker of low-grade inflammation. It was only after two fasting days per week were introduced for an additional eight weeks, leading to greater weight loss in the ...
