Furthermore, long-term adherence has been associated with favourable modulation of gut microbiota, particularly increasing short-chain fatty acid–producing species with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects.”

“The Mediterranean diet also improves lipid profiles, enhances insulin sensitivity and modulates hormonal and growth factor signalling involved in immune activation and keratinocyte proliferation.

“Additional mechanisms include cyclooxygenase inhibition by oleocanthal found in olive oil and the inhibition of proinflammatory eicosanoids by omega-3 fatty acids present in oily fish.

“It has been shown to reduce systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, largely due to its high content of antioxidant vitamins (e.g., β-carotene, vitamins C and E), polyphenols, and phytochemicals that attenuate lipoprotein oxidation and lower proinflammatory markers,” they said.