Reducing Diabetes Risk Through the Mediterranean Diet

Since the original PREDIMED (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) randomized controlled trial was published (1), scholars, clinicians, and health advocates have been fascinated with the potential for the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) events (for example, myocardial infarction, stroke, CVD mortality) and CVD risk factors (for example, hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes) substantially. The MedDiet focuses on high intake of plant-based foods; moderate consumption of fish, poultry, and dairy (along with optional red wine); and low intake of red meats, sweets, and sugar-sweetened beverages (2). Key components include extra-virgin olive oil, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and …