Research into the Mediterranean diet at Hospital Clínic

In 2003, the researchers Dr. Ramón Estruch from the Clinical Institute of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, and Dr. Emilio Ros from the Clinical Institute of Digestive and Metabolic Diseases, together with the nutritionists Mercè Serra and Ana Pérez-Heras from the Lipid Unit in the Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, began the most important scientific study in Spain on the Mediterranean diet, the PREDIMED study (Prevention with the Mediterranean Diet). A total of 7447 people with cardiovascular risk factors took part and were randomly assigned to one of three diets: A Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil; a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts; and a control diet (advice to follow a low-fat diet). The participants received quarterly dietary advice and group education sessions. It was demonstrated that a Mediterranean diet supplemented with either extra virgin olive oil or nuts reduces the incidence of serious cardiovascular events.  

Today, the studies are continuing in the PREDIMED-Plus project.