Short-term effects of a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern on cognition and mental wellbeing: A systematic review of clinical trials

Background Although the long-term effects of a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern (MDP) on cognition and overall mental wellbeing have been consistently described, short-term MDP cognitive performance, mood anxiety not as widely reviewed. Objectives The aims this systematic review were to synthesise evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCT) examine whether can alter in (up 10 days). This will also be used identify research gaps inform design future acute RCTs area. Methods Ovid EMBASE, MEDLINE Web Science Core Collection searched inception 8/12/2020. data was synthesised narratively with no quantitative synthesis. detailed protocol is available PROSPERO, registration number CRD42021221085. Results A total 3002 studies initially identified. After deduplication screening stages, 4 (3 articles 1 conference proceeding) eligible included. Despite very limited obtained, literature suggests that improve short-term. Specifically, improvements attention, alertness contentment reported. Conclusion appears promising strategy health. limitation small identified, therefore, are required confirm these initial novel findings, provide granularity which domains most responsive population subgroups.