The Adaptation of İndividuals with Coronary Heart Disease to the Mediterranean Diet, Its Relatiionship with Lipid Profile and Blood Pressure

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the adherence of individuals with existing coronary heart disease to the Mediterranean Diet and to evaluate its association with blood parameters. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 66 individuals aged 30-70 with CHD from a cardiology outpatient clinic between June and September 2022. To ensure sample homogeneity, patients with comorbid conditions such as cancer, kidney disease, liver disease, and pregnant women were excluded. Participants completed a detailed survey including sociodemographic data, biochemical parameters, a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and 24-hour dietary recalls. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Score (MedDietScore). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, employing Independent Samples T-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, ANOVA, and correlation analyses. Results: The mean Mediterranean Diet Score was 32.5 ± 5.7, indicating moderate adherence. Significant differences were observed in LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels across different adherence levels (p= 0.006 and 0.02 respectively), with higher Mediterranean Diet Scores correlating with lower levels of these lipids. Additionally, a moderately positive correlation was found between diet scores and systolic blood pressure. Conclusion: Moderate adherence to the Mediterranean diet correlates with improved lipid profiles in CHD patients. These findings support the promotion of the Mediterranean diet for cardiovascular health. However, further studies are needed to validate these findings, particularly through randomized controlled trials focusing on the long-term effects of Mediterranean diet adherence on lipid metabolism, inflammatory markers, and endothelial function. Keywords: Coronary Heart Disease, Mediterranean Diet, Lipid Profile, Blood Pressure.