Adherence to a Mediterranean-Style Diet and Its Influence on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Gerontology
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Mediterranean-style diet (MedSD) is linked to positive health outcomes, especially reduced cardiovascular disease risk.
• Assessing MedSD adherence feasibility in US older adults is of interest.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the efficacy of a MedSD intervention in US postmenopausal women.
• Determine the impact of MedSD on blood lipid levels.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study with a one-group longitudinal design involving 16 healthy postmenopausal women (mean age 77).
• 12-week intervention with nutrition counseling, emphasizing MedSD principles.
• Provided extra virgin olive oil, walnuts, and fatty fish to ensure isocaloric conditions and adherence.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in Mediterranean Diet Score and adherence.
• Favorable changes in dietary fatty acid intake, including increased n-3 and decreased n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
• Positive shifts in serum lipid profiles: increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides.

Conclusions:

• A 12-week MedSD intervention is feasible and beneficial for postmenopausal women in the US.
• MedSD positively influences dietary patterns and improves blood lipid profiles.
• Supports MedSD as a viable strategy for enhancing health in older women.