The role of Mediterranean diet in the prevention of hypertension in relation to the assessment of individual nutrients

The purpose of this case-control study was to investigate the effect that mediterranean diet model has in preventing hypertension and to hierarchy estimate mediterranean diet in relation to individual nutrients regardless of other risk factors. During the period 2004-2006, 300 adult patients with a history of primary hypertension were evaluated during their visit to Hypertension Clinic of the General Hospital of Halkidiki. As a control group 100 healthy individuals were enrolled. Recording of data and other parameters were done during interview by using a questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions on general demographics, physical activity at work and recreation, nutrition, consumption of alcoholic beverages, smoking habits, family history of hypertension and medication. The calculation of the total energy intake, the Keys Score, simple carbohydrates, fiber, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium in nutrition as well as the calculation of the Mediterranean diet score followed. Univariable and multivariable analysis were applied and found that the model of the Mediterranean diet was the main factor in the prevention of arterial hypertension followed by the dietary intake of sodium, magnesium and total energy intake. Finally, the adoption of nutritional models seems to outweigh the modification of individual nutrients.