Jimenez-Torres J, Alcalá-Diaz JF, Torres-Peña JD, et al. - Reduction in atherosclerosis progression, as reflected by decreased IMT-CC (Intima-media thickness of both common carotid arteries) and carotid plaque height, was achieved through long-term intake of a Mediterranean diet rich in extravirgin olive oil, relative to a low-fat diet. Thus, Mediterranean diet confers clinical benefits in the context of secondary cardiovascular prevention.

• From the CORDIOPREV study, 939 participants completed IMT-CC assessment at baseline.

• Participants were randomly assigned to follow a Mediterranean diet (35% fat, 22% monounsaturated fatty acids, <50% carbohydrates) or a low-fat diet (28% fat, 12% monounsaturated fatty acids, >55% carbohydrates).

• Mediterranean diet reduced IMT-CC at 5 years (−0.027±0.008 mm), maintained at 7 years (−0.031±0.008 mm), vs baseline.

• Mediterranean diet resulted in a higher decrease in IMT-CC and carotid plaque _max height vs the low-fat diet.