Study Finds Mediterranean Diet Helps Reduce Perceived Stress

In a recent study published in the journal Nutrition and Health, Mediterranean diet versus the traditional Western diet might make you feel like you're under less stress, according to new research conducted by a team from Binghamton University, State University of New York.

The findings suggested that people can lower their perception of how much stress they can tolerate by following a Mediterranean diet, said Lina Begdache, associate professor of health and wellness studies.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats, and a variety of natural colours, emphasises wholesome, nutrient-dense options. This stands in stark contrast to the Western diet, which is characterised by high-glycemic, low-quality processed foods. While the Mediterranean diet is well-known for its positive effects on both mental and physical health, its impact on perceived stress—how much stress one feels at any given time—remains less understood.

To explore this, Begdache and her students surveyed over 1,500 individuals, gathering data on their dietary habits and levels of perceived stress. By applying a machine learning model, the findings revealed that consuming elements of the Mediterranean diet is linked to reduced levels of perceived stress and mental distress, while a diet rich in Western food components is associated with higher perceived stress and mental distress.

Begdache noted that these findings address a gap in existing research, which has largely concentrated on how stress influences dietary choices and quality. Her team is now investigating how different dietary patterns relate to various aspects of brain function and behaviour.

It is concluded that this study highlights the Mediterranean diet's significant role in reducing perceived stress. By analysing dietary patterns and their impact on stress levels, the research demonstrates that the Mediterranean diet—characterised by its plant-based foods, healthy fats, and vibrant, nutrient-dense ingredients—is associated with lower perceived stress and mental distress. These findings contribute valuable insights into how dietary choices can influence mental well-being and underscore the potential benefits of adopting a Mediterranean dietary pattern for stress management.

References: Chowdhury, U., et al. (2024). Effects of Mediterranean and Western dietary patterns on perceived stress and mental distress. Nutrition and Health. doi.org/10.1177/02601060241263375.