People who consume a Mediterranean diet and increase the amount of exercise they do for just eight weeks, may still be reaping the health rewards of this one year later, a new study suggests.

UK researchers looked at people over the age of 50 who were originally assessed over an eight-week period. During this time, one group of participants were encouraged to just take up exercise, however the second group was encouraged to take up exercise and consume more fruit, vegetables, oily fish, nuts and olive oil - all commonly found in a Mediterranean diet.

The study found that those who took up exercise and changed their diet had improved blood flow in their endothelial cells - these are cells found in the inner lining of all of the body's blood vessels.

Improvements in the functioning of these cells is linked to a reduced risk of developing heart disease.

The researchers noted that overall, those in the diet and exercise group displayed more health benefits than those in the exercise-only group.

Furthermore, they emphasised that the improved functioning of the endothelial cells seen in the diet and exercise group was still present one year after the eight-week programme had been completed.

"Preserving a patient's endothelial function as they get older is thought to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, so these findings are very encouraging. Although exercise on its own can be beneficial, other lifestyle factors such as nutrition, play an important role as well," commented lead researcher, Dr Markos Klonizakis, of Sheffield Hallam University.

The researchers said that it is essential to find ways of reducing cases of cardiovascular disease.

"With cardiovascular disease adding a huge burden to healthcare systems around the globe, it is important to find ways to reduce the number of cases. Even a medium-duration intervention with a Mediterranean diet and exercise regime can promise long-term health benefits, especially in people at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease," added co-researcher, Geoff Middleton, of the University of Lincoln.

Details of these findings are published in the journal, Microvascular Research.

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