The Prevalence of Adherence to Prudent Dietary Patterns and Their Association with Physical and Mental Health

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue explores the links of adherence to prudent diets (e.g., Mediterranean, MIND, DASH) and time-restricted eating (TRE) or fasting with physical and mental health. Modern shifts toward processed foods have worsened chronic disease risks, while evidence suggests that balanced diets and structured eating regimens can enhance metabolic, cognitive, and psychological well-being. However, long-term adherence remains low due to socioeconomic, cultural, and behavioral barriers.

We invite studies on the following topics:

• Prevalence and determinants of dietary adherence across populations;
• Health impacts, including bidirectional diet–gut–brain interactions;
• Strategies to promote compliance (e.g., personalized nutrition, policy changes);
• Synergies between diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management.

Original research, reviews, and interventions are welcome, particularly the following:

1. Epidemiological and clinical studies on the prevalence of adherence to prudent diets and their associations with physical/mental health;
2. Interventional trials testing novel approaches to enhance dietary compliance (e.g., personalized nutrition, community programs);
3. Mechanistic insights into how prudent diets and fasting regimens modulate inflammation, oxidative stress, and the gut–brain axis;
4. Barriers and facilitators of long-term adherence, including cultural, economic, and psychological factors;
5. Synergistic effects of diet combined with exercise, sleep, and stress management in general and athletic populations.

This Special Issue will inform tailored public health strategies, clinical guidelines, and personalized interventions to counteract unhealthy dietary trends and optimize holistic health outcomes in diverse populations, including athletes and high-stress groups.

Dr. Achraf Ammar
Guest Editor

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