Olive oil is one of the fundamental pillars of the Mediterranean Diet, being recognised for its multiple health benefits and its key role in the prevention of chronic diseases. This food, essential in the culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, not only adds a unique flavour to dishes, but is also an unrivalled source of healthy fats, antioxidants and vitamins. Extra virgin olive oil is undoubtedly one of the most important ingredients in the physical and mental development of children and young people, promoting cardiovascular health and helping to combat obesity.
In this context, the Mediterranean Diet Foundation presents, in its commitment to promote health and sustainability, the first Mediterranean Diet pyramid designed specifically for children and young people between 3 and 18 years old. This lifestyle model, developed by the scientific committee Paralelo 40 - Mediterranean Diet Foundation and coordinated by Dr. Ramon Estruch, is based on the conclusions of the XII International Mediterranean Diet Congress held as part of the Alimentaria trade fair in Barcelona, and has been published in the prestigious international journal Advances in Nutrition (USA).
The scientific paper supporting this pyramid has been prepared by a team of professional experts from the fields of health, food, sustainability and other related disciplines. This work not only reflects the conclusions of the scientific committee, but also provides a solid basis for nutritional and lifestyle recommendations adapted to the needs of children and young people.
An eating pattern adapted to the needs of the new generations
The Mediterranean Diet pyramid for children and young people includes nutritional recommendations based on scientific evidence to support physical and mental development in the early stages of life. The traditional pillars of the Mediterranean Diet-fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains and extra virgin olive oil-remain the basis of the model. In addition, the importance of a balanced consumption of fish, dairy products and meat, which are particularly crucial for child and youth development, is highlighted.
For the first time, this pyramid incorporates essential concepts such as food sustainability, promoting the consumption of local and seasonal products. It also underlines the fundamental role of physical exercise, adequate rest and emotional health in the well-being of children and adolescents.
‘The aim of this pyramid is much more than providing nutritional guidelines. We want to promote a lifestyle that ensures long-term health and prevents possible chronic diseases in the future,’ explains Dr Ramon Estruch.
A key tool to combat childhood obesity
The new Mediterranean Diet pyramid for children and youth is positioned as an essential tool in the fight against childhood obesity, providing a clear and practical guide that integrates nutrition, holistic wellness and sustainability. With this initiative, the Mediterranean Diet Foundation reinforces its work to promote healthy and sustainable habits from childhood, in order to ensure a healthier and more balanced future for new generations.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the number of obese children has increased tenfold in the last four decades. This worrying figure highlights the importance of this initiative, which seeks to improve eating habits from an early age in order to reduce the incidence of diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adulthood.
The Mediterranean Diet Foundation wants to turn this pyramid into an essential tool for families, schools, school canteens, groups and restaurants. This educational model not only reinforces the potential of the Mediterranean Diet as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, but also aims to ensure a sustainable diet for future generations.
For the Mediterranean Diet Foundation, this new pyramid is much more than a dietary guideline; it is the reflection of the ideal of a lifestyle based on scientific evidence and that contemplates more than 30 years of history that contributes to prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases and even certain types of cancer.
The new pyramid for children and young people reinforces this legacy, adapting it to the needs and challenges of the new generations.
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