A team led by researchers at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel looked at data from 294 adults to compare the health benefits of two types of Mediterranean diet against general healthy eating recommendations to eat less fat and salt, and more vegetables. .

By helping to reduce visceral fat, the green Mediterranean diet could improve heart health and blood sugar control, and stave off chronic disease, according to the study authors. .

The green Mediterranean diet included even more polyphenols and other antioxidants in the form of green tea, which evidence suggests can help reduce cholesterol and inflammation, and boost brain and heart health

The green shake included on the diet also added protein as well as a specific type of B vitamin called folate, which may have also helped with reducing visceral fat, according to the researchers.