Mediterranean versus Western diet: Effects on gut microbiota, systemic inflammation, and clinical implications in metabolic health.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review examined the effects of the Mediterranean and Western diets on gut microbiota and systemic inflammation. The findings indicate that adherence to the Mediterranean diet is linked to increased gut microbial diversity and lower levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, suggesting its potential role in metabolic health.

Key findings

• Greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with increased gut microbial diversity.
• The Mediterranean diet correlates with lower circulating inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein and interleukin-6.
• Western dietary patterns are linked to gut dysbiosis and a chronic low-grade inflammatory profile.

Why it matters

Understanding the impact of dietary patterns on gut microbiota and inflammation is crucial for developing effective nutritional strategies to prevent and manage metabolic diseases.