Mediterranean Diet Favors Vitamin K Intake: A Descriptive Study in a Mediterranean Population

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Dietary Patterns
• Public Health

Background:

• The Mediterranean diet (MD) is linked to longevity and chronic inflammatory disease (CID) prevention.
• Vitamin K, abundant in MD foods like leafy greens, offers protection against CIDs.
• Data on vitamin K intake and MD adherence in Mediterranean populations are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess vitamin K intake and MD adherence in Portugal's Algarve region.
• To investigate the association between MD adherence and vitamin K consumption.
• To identify factors influencing MD adherence and nutrient intake.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 238 adults in the Algarve region.
• Utilized an online questionnaire with a validated food-frequency questionnaire and MD adherence screener.
• Analyzed data for MD adherence, vitamin K intake, and demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Low MD adherence (11%) was observed in the study sample.
• Most participants (90%) met adequate vitamin K intake levels.
• MD adherence positively correlated with vitamin K intake (r = 0.463, p < 0.001) and age (r = 0.223, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Promoting MD adherence is essential for achieving adequate vitamin K intake.
• Interventions should target younger individuals and men to improve MD adoption.
• Further research is needed to develop effective strategies for promoting the MD.