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The Mediterranean Diet and Cardiovascular Protection: Biochemical Mechanisms with Emphasis on Platelet-Activating
Paraskevi Detopoulou1, Smaragdi Antonopoulou2, Pinelopi Douvogianni1
1Department of Nutritional Science and Dietetics, University of Peloponnese, Antikalamos, 24100 Kalamata, Greece.
Nutrients
|May 13, 2026
Summary
The Mediterranean diet (MD) reduces cardiovascular events by inhibiting Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF). Rich in natural PAF inhibitors, MD foods combat atherosclerosis and promote longevity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology
- Nutritional Science
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Landmark studies show the Mediterranean diet (MD) significantly reduces cardiovascular events.
- The Mediterranean diet (MD) offers a functional model for human longevity through synergistic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence on the Mediterranean diet's (MD) protective cardiovascular effects.
- To elucidate the biological pathways, emphasizing Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies and clinical trials (e.g., Seven Countries Study, PREDIMED).
- Analysis of mechanistic pathways involving antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic effects.
- Focus on the role of Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) in atherosclerosis and its inhibition by dietary components.
Main Results:
- MD improves lipid profiles, endothelial function, and postprandial metabolism.
- Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) is implicated in atherosclerosis initiation and progression.
- Mediterranean foods (olive oil, fish, vegetables) contain natural PAF inhibitors that reduce PAF activity and improve thrombosis biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- The Mediterranean diet (MD) exerts cardio-protective effects by targeting Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF).
- Dietary PAF inhibitors offer a promising strategy for preventing and managing atherosclerosis.
- Utilizing food by-products for PAF inhibitor extraction presents ecological and economic benefits.
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