Mediterranean Diet Helps Prevent Chronic Diseases

The Mediterranean diet continues to be highly regarded for its numerous health benefits, ranking as the top overall diet in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report. The diet's emphasis on plant-based foods, healthy fats, and lean proteins has long been associated with chronic disease prevention and overall well-being. 

The Mediterranean diet is centered around foods commonly found in the regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, according to US Davis Health. Key components include fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, and whole grains. Fish and seafood are also central to the diet, alongside healthy fats and oils.

U.S. News assessed 38 diets with the input from 69 experts, including medical doctors, registered dietitians, nutritional epidemiologists, chefs, and weight loss researchers. 

The Mediterranean diet was not only named the Best Overall Diet but also ranked highest for specific health goals, including diabetes management, mental health, and gut health. This diet has also been shown to benefit heart health. For example, a study involving almost 26,000 women revealed that those who adhered to this diet had a 25% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease over a 12-year period, as reported by Harvard T.H. Chan.

This information could benefit Mexicans, considering the high prevalence of chronic diseases in the country. For example, the prevalence of diabetes has seen a notable increase in the country. In 2018, 14.40% of Mexican adults were diagnosed with diabetes. By 2022, this figure had risen to 18.30%.

“Diabetes is a preventable disease in many cases; however, paradoxically, it is one of the leading causes of mortality in Mexico,” says David Kershenobich, Mexico's Minister of Health.