Jennings A, et al. – In this study reporting on the results of a 1-year European multicenter trial, researchers determined whether a Mediterranean-style diet, individuals to meet the dietary recommendations for older adults, has any impact on blood pressure levels and arterial stiffness. Blood pressure levels were measured and recorded for 1,294 participants (aged 65-79 years) of the NU-AGE trial, and arterial stiffness was measured and recorded in a subset of 225 participants. Those assigned to the intervention group were given individually tailored standardized dietary guidance and commercially available foods to increase adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet. Those in the control group maintained their normal daily diet and were given current national dietary advice. A total of 1,142 participants completed the trial. According to results 1 year following the intervention, male participants saw a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure levels. Diastolic blood pressure level reduction post-intervention, on the other hand, did not reach statistical significance. Augmentation index, which is a measure of arterial stiffness, did improve following the intervention, with no change in pulse wave velocity, in the subset of 225 participants. The investigators also noted increased 24-hour urinary potassium levels post-intervention, as well as a reduction in pulse pressure and 240hour urinary sodium for male participants. Overall, a Mediterranean-style diet resulted in clinically relevant reductions in blood pressure and arterial stiffness and showed efficacy in improving cardiovascular health.