Changing the Irish dietary guidelines to incorporate the principles of the Mediterranean diet: proposing the MedÉire diet.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: In Ireland, the major causes of death are CVD. The current Irish healthy eating guidelines and food pyramid primarily advocate a low-fat diet. However, there is overwhelming scientific evidence for the benefits of a Mediterranean diet (Med Diet) in the prevention and management of metabolic disease as well as improving overall health and well-being. In the current commentary, the rationale to incorporate the principles of the Med Diet into the Irish dietary guidelines is presented. DESIGN: Perspectives of authors. SETTING: Local and international. SUBJECTS: Populations in Europe, North America and Australia. RESULTS: Adopting components of the Med Diet presents a more evidence-based approach to updating the current Irish dietary guidelines. Experience and lessons from other non-Mediterranean countries show that it could be a feasible and effective solution to improving the dietary habits of the Irish population to prevent and mange chronic diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Policies and programmes to address perceived barriers to the Med Diet's implementation and uptake in non-Mediterranean countries should be promoted.