Mediterranean diet: what the evidence says (2026)
The studies behind the grade
RCT (retracted and republished 2018; effect retained) · 7,447 · adults at high cardiovascular risk (Spain)
These figures come from randomized trials, the strongest test of cause and effect. They describe the people who were studied; whether they apply to you is a question for your doctor.
Cochrane systematic review of RCTs · 30 RCTs, 12,461 participants · adults, primary and secondary CVD prevention
What it costs
- Foundation: Free Mediterranean protocol · $0
- Measured: + targeted CGM cycle · ~$200 each, 2–4×/yr
- Concierge: + clinical dietitian · Bundled
Costs are the Protocol's cost notes for each tier.
Sources
- Estruch R et al. (2018). Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts (retraction and republication). N Engl J Med. Verified September 2026
- Rees K et al. (2019). Mediterranean-style diet for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Verified September 2026
A grade describes the quality of the research. It is not a treatment recommendation. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you.
Evidence, compared. Not medical advice. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you.
Common questions
- What does the grade mean?
How strong the research is, on the published YL360 Methodology scale. Grade A: the evidence is clear. Grade C: the evidence is thin or mixed. The grade rates the studies, not you.
- Does a higher grade mean a bigger benefit?
No. The grade rates the quality of the evidence. The studies listed show what kind of research it is, how many people were studied, and who they were. A Grade A with a modest effect is common.
- Where do the costs come from?
From the YL360 Protocol's cost note for each tier. Prices on comparison pages carry their own verified dates.
- Is Mediterranean diet worth it, then?
That depends on your age, your risk and your budget, and it's a conversation with your doctor. This page gives you the evidence and the price so you walk in prepared.
- Is this medical advice?
No. It's evidence, compared. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you.