Summary
The Emory Twins Heart Study found that men eating a Mediterranean-style diet had significantly higher HRV than those eating a Western diet, even after controlling for genetics and shared environment.
Methods
Twin study, 276 middle-aged male twins, 24-hour ECG monitoring
Key Findings
- 1-unit higher Mediterranean diet score = 4-13% higher HRV
- Higher SDNN, RMSSD, and frequency domain parameters
- Effects independent of genetics and shared environment
- Omega-3 intake likely a key mediating factor
Limitations
Male-only sample, observational design
What This Means for You
A Mediterranean-style diet—rich in vegetables, fish, olive oil, and whole grains—is associated with better cardiac autonomic function. This dietary pattern may be one of the most sustainable ways to support HRV long-term.
Source
Read the original paper in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-10