Is the Mediterranean diet the same as an anti-inflammatory diet?
The Mediterranean diet is the best-studied anti-inflammatory eating pattern — high in olive oil, oily fish, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and legumes, low in red meat and processed food. 'Anti-inflammatory diet' is a broader marketing term that overlaps heavily. For UK arthritis patients, the practical answer is the same: follow a Mediterranean-style pattern using British supermarket ingredients.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
When would you pick Mediterranean diet?
Best evidence base; sustainable long-term; supports heart, brain, joint and mental health.
When would you pick General 'anti-inflammatory' diet?
You already follow one; you're looking for specific elimination or supplement guidance.
What should I be careful about?
Don't cut foods without medical advice — restrictive diets can cause nutritional gaps, especially in older adults.