Human study · Nutrition · 25 Oct 2026
Mediterranean diet may boost tiny proteins that protect the heart and brain
Source: ScienceDaily
What the research found
Scientists have uncovered a surprising new clue to why the Mediterranean diet is so good for the heart, brain, and healthy aging. Researchers at USC found that older adults who closely followed the diet had higher levels of two tiny proteins, humanin and SHMOOSE, produced by the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures inside cells. These proteins have been linked to protection against heart disease, Alzheimer&#
Evidence level: Human study. A study in people, but an association isn't proof of cause.
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