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Impact of the Mediterranean Dietary pattern on n-3 fatty acid tissue levels-A systematic review

Mantzioris E, Muhlhausler BS, Villani A

Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and essential fatty acids, 2022

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is described as a plant-based dietary pattern with adherence associated with reductions in chronic disease risk and longevity. Although the nutrient profile is diverse and complex, the MedDiet is often described as a rich source of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) derived from fish, seafood and nuts. However, whether MedDiet adherence results in appreciable increases in tissue levels of n-3 PUFAs is yet to be systematically investigated. This systematic review synthesized the literature to determine the impact of the MedDiet on n-3 PUFA tissue levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medline, Embase, Amed, and CINAHL databases were searched for studies reporting on adherence to a MedDiet and tissue levels of n-3 PUFAs. PROSPERO registration number is CRD 42020162114.

RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were included. Seven were observational studies and 15 were randomised controlled trials (RCTs). All observational studies reported a positive relationship between adherence and higher tissue n-3 PUFA levels. Two-thirds (10/15) of RCTs reported significant increases in n-3 PUFA concentrations.

DISCUSSION: MedDiet adherence is associated with higher tissue levels of n-3 PUFA. However, we report heterogeneity in the description across all MedDiet interventions.

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