Effect of a Mediterranean-Style Diet on Endothelial Dysfunction and Markers of Vascular Inflammation in the Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

The metabolic syndrome consists of a constellation of factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Recent estimates indicate that the metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent in the United States, with an estimated 24% of the adult population affected.¹ Its clinical identification is based on measures of abdominal obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, and glucose intolerance.² The etiology of this syndrome is largely unknown but presumably represents a complex interaction between genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors including diet.^3,4 Several recent studies also suggest that a proinflammatory state is one component of the metabolic syndrome.^5-8 Moreover, evidence has accumulated indicating that low-grade inflammation is associated with endothelial dysfunction.^9,10