The Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet on Inflamm-Aging in Childhood Obesity

Nutrients. 2024 Apr 25;16(9):1286. doi: 10.3390/nu16091286.

Abstract

(1) Background: Numerous elements of the Mediterranean diet (MD) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. (2) Methods: We present a narrative review of the potential benefits of the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MD) in mitigating aging-related inflammation (inflamm-aging) associated with childhood obesity. The mechanisms underlying chronic inflammation in obesity are also discussed. A total of 130 papers were included after screening abstracts and full texts. (3) Results: A complex interplay between obesity, chronic inflammation, and related comorbidities is documented. The MD emerges as a promising dietary pattern for mitigating inflammation. Studies suggest that the MD may contribute to weight control, improved lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and endothelial function, thereby reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents with obesity. (4) Conclusions: While evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of the MD in pediatric obesity is still evolving, the existing literature underscores its potential as a preventive and therapeutic strategy. However, MD adherence remains low among children and adolescents, necessitating targeted interventions to promote healthier dietary habits. Future high-quality intervention studies are necessary to elucidate the specific impact of the MD on inflammation in diverse pediatric populations with obesity and associated comorbidities.

Keywords: Mediterranean diet; childhood obesity; children; inflamm-aging; nutrition; pediatric.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aging
  • Child
  • Diet, Mediterranean*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation* / prevention & control
  • Metabolic Syndrome / prevention & control
  • Pediatric Obesity* / prevention & control

Grants and funding

(1) Project: “ON Foods-Research and innovation network on food and nutrition Sustainability, Safety and Security-Working ON Foods”, a project funded under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.3-Call for proposal No. 341 of 15 March 2022 of the Italian Ministry of University and Research funded by the European Union-NextGenerationEU. Project code PE00000003, Concession Decree No. 1550 of 11 October 2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, CUP D93C22000890001; (2) Project: 101128946—PODiaCar—EU4H-2022, Project co-funded by the European Union; (3) PRIN: research projects of significant national interest-2022 call prot. 20228pnnjl.