Key result
Mediterranean diet adherence is linked to ~1.3-unit lower childhood SBP per unit score increase.
Why the study?
The association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet by children and their parents and arterial blood pressure in school-aged children was not well established.
Does high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet by children and parents reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in school-aged children?
Cross-Sectional (n=102)
Does high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet by children and parents reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in school-aged children?
Higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet by both children and their parents is independently associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in school-aged children, highlighting the value of a family-based approach to early cardiometabolic prevention.
Background/Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine the association between the systolic (SBP) as well as diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels of school-aged children and the adherence of both children and their parents to the Mediterranean Diet. Methods: Detailed data on sociodemographic characteristics, eating habits, and anthropometry were collected from each child (N = 102) and their accompanied parent or legal guardian (N = 102). KIDMED (range: −4 to 12) was used to evaluate children’s level of adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and MedDietScore (range: 0–55) was used for parents. Children’s blood pressure (BP) was measured using a validated automated oscillometric device. Results: Children with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet had significantly lower SBP (p < 0.001), DBP (p = 0.009), and hip circumference (p = 0.01) compared to those with lower adherence. Similarly, children of parents with high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet exhibited lower body weight (p = 0.03), waist circumference (p = 0.03), SBP (p < 0.001), and DBP (p = 0.004). In fully adjusted models, for each unit increase in children’s KIDMED scores, a 1.33 unit reduction in SBP (p < 0.001), and a 0.77 unit reduction in DBP were found. Similarly, parental MedDietScore was independently associated with significant reductions in children’s SBP (1.01 mmHg) and DBP (0.75 mmHg) (all p’s < 0.05). Conclusions: Adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern by children and parents seems to be associated with lower BP in childhood, supporting the potential value of a family-based approach, particularly involving mothers.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Foscolou et al. (2025) conducted a cross-sectional in Arterial blood pressure (n=102). Mediterranean Diet adherence (KIDMED for children, MedDietScore for parents) vs. Lower adherence to the Mediterranean Diet was evaluated on Systolic blood pressure (SBP) (b coefficient -1.33 units per unit increase in KIDMED score, p=<0.001). Higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet by both children and parents was independently associated with significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure in school-aged children.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: