Aim

This study aimed to investigate effects of a six-week Mediterranean diet (MD) intervention on gingival inflammatory and anthropometric parameters of patients with gingivitis.

Materials and Methods

Forty-two participants were allocated to MD group (MDG) or control group (CG). After a two weeks equilibration period regarding dental care procedures, only MDG changed their diet to MD for six weeks, supported by a diet counseling. Gingival and anthropometric parameters were assessed at baseline (T0), Week 2 (T1, beginning of MD intervention), and Week 8 (T2). Adherence to MD was assessed by the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), dietary behavior was evaluated by the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults Food Frequency Questionnaire (DEGS-FFQ).

Results

Plaque values remained constant in both groups. Inflammatory periodontal and anthropometric parameters decreased in the MDG only (gingival index: T1 1.51±0.21, T2 1.49±0.24; bleeding on probing: T1 51.00±14.65, T2 39.93±13.74; body weight: T1 79.01±15.62, T2 77.29±17.00; waist circumference: T1 84.41±10.1, T2 83.17±10.47 (p < 0.05). MEDAS revealed a sufficient diet adherence for MDG.

Conclusion

Within this study, gingival inflammatory parameters were significantly reduced by MD, whereas plaque parameters remained constant. The diet counseling achieved sufficient adherence with beneficial changes in weight loss and waist circumference.