Structured dietary programs ranked by effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risk.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials compared the efficacy of seven popular structured dietary programs in preventing mortality and major cardiovascular events in patients at increased cardiovascular risk. The study found that Mediterranean and low-fat dietary programs, with or without physical activity or other interventions, reduce all-cause mortality and non-fatal myocardial infarction in patients with increased cardiovascular risk. Mediterranean programs are also likely to reduce stroke risk. Generally, other named dietary programs were not superior to minimal intervention.