A New Mediterranean Lifestyle Pyramid for Children and Youth: A Critical Lifestyle Tool for Preventing Obesity and Associated Cardiometabolic Diseases in a Sustainable Context

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease risk factors begin in childhood and track into adulthood, increasing the possibility of impaired cardiometabolic health. Adopting healthy dietary patterns can help curb childhood obesity, a worrisome epidemic problem at present. In the era of personalized nutrition, dietary recommendations should be adapted to different stages of life, including children (older than 3 y) and adolescents. In this study, we present an updated version of the Mediterranean Lifestyle Pyramid addressed to children and adolescents, which may be used as a prevention tool by health professionals, teachers, and stakeholders. This pyramid arises from a consensus position between participants in an International Congress on Mediterranean diet held in Barcelona. During this meeting, after reviewing all literature published, a consensus was reached on the new Mediterranean Lifestyle Pyramid for kids including details such as labels of the pyramid, position of foods, servings, type of foods, and healthy lifestyle habits. All components of the pyramid are supported by the most recent scientifically sound research and are based upon top-level evidence in nutritional sciences. Fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts, wholegrains, and extra-virgin olive oil continue to be at the basis of the pyramid, but the importance of an adequate intake of fish, dairy products, and meat during these particular ages, when body and brain development occurs, is also considered. The promotion of physical activity, adequate sleep, and good emotional health are emphasized, as well as the consumption of seasonal and local products, and overall sustainability. Improving dietary habits in early stages of life should increase health in adulthood and reduce future incidence of noncommunicable chronic diseases. The Mediterranean diet and its graphic representation in the Lifestyle Pyramid should be a health-fostering tool not only for adults and children but also for the entire planet because it promotes the diversity of species, respect for the earth, and the local economy.

Keywords: Mediterranean diet; adolescents; cardiometabolic diseases; children; extra-virgin olive oil; lifestyle; obesity; sustainability.

FIGURE 1

Mediterranean lifestyle pyramid for children and youth. A new Mediterranean Lifestyle Pyramid has been developed based on the healthy eating habits that should be followed by children and adolescents to achieve optimal health and mental development in these critical stages of life. The pyramid is based on sustainable products such as local and seasonal foods. Physical activity, conviviality, good emotional health, adequate sleep, and rest, as well as healthier culinary activities are promoted. Consumption every day of 5–8 glasses of water should be guaranteed. Extra-virgin olive oil, cereal products (preferably whole grain), fruits, and vegetables should be consumed in every meal; boiled potatoes may also be consumed ≤3 servings/wk, not exceeding 100 g/d; dairy products and nuts are recommended for daily consumption; seafood, eggs, pulses, and unprocessed white or red meat can be consumed weekly in different proportions. Cured meats and cold cuts, solid and liquid sweets, and traditional desserts should be consumed only occasionally. S, servings.