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New Delhi, July 13, 2025 — In a pioneering initiative aimed at tackling India’s escalating heart disease crisis, researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, in collaboration with The George Institute and the University of South Carolina, have developed the first Indian Adapted Mediterranean Diet (IAMD). This new dietary plan, designed specifically for Indian patients, integrates the well-established cardioprotective principles of the Mediterranean diet with locally available and culturally acceptable Indian ingredients.
A Science-Driven Response to Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of death in India, with prevalence rates ranging from 7 to 13 percent in urban areas and 2 to 7 percent in rural populations. Poor dietary patterns, sedentary lifestyles, and rising obesity have been identified as major risk factors. The IAMD, currently undergoing clinical trials at AIIMS, is intended to provide a sustainable, anti-inflammatory dietary solution for CAD patients and the broader population.
Blending Mediterranean Principles with Indian Flavours
The Mediterranean diet is globally recognized for its emphasis on plant-based foods, healthy fats (notably olive oil), moderate fish and dairy, and limited red meat and sugars. The IAMD adapts these principles by:
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Replacing Mediterranean grains like bulgur and farro with broken whole wheat and local rice varieties (such as Basmati).
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Using mustard and peanut oils in place of extra virgin olive oil.
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Incorporating Indian herbs and spices—such as turmeric (haldi), Indian basil (tulsi), carom seeds (ajwain), nutmeg (jaiphal), and mace (javitri)—to substitute for Mediterranean herbs.
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Expanding the green leafy vegetable selection with bathua, chaulai, fenugreek leaves, and radish leaves.
The diet plan features a seven-day cyclic menu tailored for different caloric needs (ranging from 1200 to 2000 kcal) and distributes meals across three main and three minor eating occasions per day. This approach aims to mirror habitual Indian eating patterns while replacing pro-inflammatory foods with anti-inflammatory alternatives.
Measuring Anti-Inflammatory Potential
The IAMD was evaluated using the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), a scientific tool that quantifies the inflammatory potential of diets. While current diets of CAD patients in India scored a median of 1.1 on the DII (indicating a pro-inflammatory tendency), the IAMD achieved a median score of -8.0, approaching the theoretical maximum anti-inflammatory effect.
A Return to Tradition, Guided by Evidence
Researchers note that traditional Indian diets already contain many anti-inflammatory ingredients, but modern eating habits have shifted toward high cereal intake and low consumption of legumes, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. The IAMD seeks to revive traditional dietary diversity, encouraging the use of seasonal vegetables, colourful fruits, healthy oils, nuts, and whole pulses, while reducing sugar and ultra-processed foods.
Clinical Trials and Future Directions
The efficacy, acceptability, and feasibility of the IAMD are currently being tested in a clinical trial involving 140 patients at AIIMS, nearly half of whom are CAD patients. Researchers hope to expand the IAMD beyond North Indian cuisine to reflect India’s vast culinary diversity.
“A healthy adult can consume this diet and we encourage the whole family to consume the same food. This makes it sustainable and also benefits the entire family,” said Dr. Archana Singh, professor of biochemistry at AIIMS and a key researcher on the project.
Disclaimer:
The Indian Adapted Mediterranean Diet (IAMD) is currently under clinical evaluation for its effectiveness and acceptability. While early findings suggest it may offer significant cardioprotective benefits, individuals should consult healthcare professionals before making substantial changes to their diet, especially those with existing health conditions. The information provided here is for general awareness and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
