Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Arterial Blood Pressure in Schoolchildren: The Role of Parental Eating Habits
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background/Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine the association between the systolic (SBP) as well as diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels of school-aged children and the adherence of both children and their parents to the Mediterranean Diet. Methods: Detailed data on sociodemographic characteristics, eating habits, and anthropometry were collected from each child (N = 102) and their accompanied parent or legal guardian (N = 102). KIDMED (range: −4 to 12) was used to evaluate children’s level of adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and MedDietScore (range: 0–55) was used for parents. Children’s blood pressure (BP) was measured using a validated automated oscillometric device. Results: Children with higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet had significantly lower SBP (p < 0.001), DBP (p = 0.009), and hip circumference (p = 0.01) compared to those with lower adherence. Similarly, children of parents with high adherence to the Mediterranean Diet exhibited lower body weight (p = 0.03), waist circumference (p = 0.03), SBP (p < 0.001), and DBP (p = 0.004). In fully adjusted models, for each unit increase in children’s KIDMED scores, a 1.33 unit reduction in SBP (p < 0.001), and a 0.77 unit reduction in DBP were found. Similarly, parental MedDietScore was independently associated with significant reductions in children’s SBP (1.01 mmHg) and DBP (0.75 mmHg) (all p’s < 0.05). Conclusions: Adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern by children and parents seems to be associated with lower BP in childhood, supporting the potential value of a family-based approach, particularly involving mothers.
Source: Children
Language: English
Topic: Nutritional Studies and Diet
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W4411962064