The Mediterranean Diet in Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases

AbstractPurpose of reviewThe Mediterranean diet (MD) initially gained notoriety because of its link to reduced cardiovascular disease but over time has been associated with lower metabolic disease (diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension), cancer, and all-cause mortality. Here, we review the existing literature examining the MD in common gastrointestinal and liver diseases.Recent findingsThe composition of the MD is rich in anti-inflammatory micronutrients (omega-9/omega-3 fatty acids, resveratrol) and fiber which are thought to confer its positive effects. The MD can help reduce non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) independent of weight loss, the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is inversely related to MD adherence, and symptoms are reduced in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who follow the MD.SummaryWhile there remains a paucity of data evaluating the specific pathophysiology effect of this diet on gastrointestinal diseases, there is data supporting a benefit in gastrointestinal disease. Future studies should include those that investigate pathophysiologic mechanisms at the molecular level as well as prospective clinical trials that aim to demonstrate a therapeutic effect on clinical outcomes.
Source: Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology - Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research