The Mediterranean diet has been popularized in recent years for its wide-ranging health benefits. Among the many health benefits of the diet include a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases (such as the lowering of cholesterol and the prevention of heart disease), the management of blood glucose levels, and the management of a healthy weight, all of which can contribute to a person’s increased longevity.
Part of the Mediterranean’s health benefits stems from the increased amounts of healthy unsaturated fats people consume while following these diets. These fats, including mono and polyunsaturated fats, come from a higher consumption of fish, nuts, and whole grains, which are staples of the diet. In comparison, the typical American diet consists of pretty much the opposite: saturated fats, enriched flours, and sugar.
According to a study presented at UEG Week 2022, the Mediterranean diet could count “helps improve response to cancer treatment” among its many health benefits.
The presentation recounts preliminary data from a multi-center trial that included about 90 participants with advanced melanoma from the U.S. and the Netherlands. Researchers gathered information about patient’s dietary habits while they were receiving treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor. Immune checkpoint inhibitors work by blocking certain parts of the immune system, which tells T-cells to start attacking cancer cells.
With the use of regular imaging scans, researchers were able to show that patients who followed a Mediterranean diet had (1) a better response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and (2) progression-free survival after 12 months of treatment. Researchers highlight that their findings indicate the importance of dietary education and support for melanoma patients, which could help improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers also found that following parts of the Mediterranean diet could reduce side effects caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors or other immune-based treatments. The team suggests that there may be links between diet, the gut microbiome, and the efficacy of treatment of patients with melanoma.
Sources: Eurekalert!; UEG Week 2022
