ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which diet has been shown to notably reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?

1. Keto diet

2. Mediterranean diet

3. Paleo diet

4. Atkins diet

The correct answer is: Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet is recognized for its beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. This dietary pattern emphasizes the consumption of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, while also incorporating healthy fats, particularly olive oil. It includes moderate amounts of fish and poultry, as well as limited red meat and dairy. Research indicates that the Mediterranean diet contributes to improved heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels. This is largely attributed to the high content of monounsaturated fats from olive oil, the abundance of antioxidants from plant foods, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish. Studies have consistently shown that adherence to this diet is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and related mortality. In contrast, other diets listed may offer various benefits but do not have the same extensive research backing specifically targeting cardiovascular disease reduction as the Mediterranean diet does. For instance, the Keto diet promotes high-fat, low-carbohydrate intake, which can have mixed effects on cholesterol levels. The Paleo diet, while emphasizing whole foods, may lead to increased saturated fat intake due to its focus on animal products. The Atkins diet, similar to the Keto, involves significant changes in carbohydrate intake but may lack long-term studies demonstrating cardiovascular benefits