Healthy lifestyle program
Participants randomized to the healthy lifestyle program received a 12-week educational program that consisted of three sessions during clinic visits (at baseline, 4-weeks, and 8-weeks) and 12 telephone counseling calls. The first session focused on the impact of the Mediterranean diet on health, with an emphasis on cardiovascular health. It included recommendations on the best food choices and foods to avoid as part of the principles of the Mediterranean food pattern. The second session addressed various lifestyle topics, such as the importance of hydration, how to increase water intake, physical activity, and sleep quality. The third session focused on the negative health impact of addictive habits, such as alcohol consumption and smoking, as well as healthy culinary methods. After each session, participants received a flyer summarizing the topics discussed. Furthermore, they received four telephone counseling calls after each face-to-face session to reinforce the information and clarify any questions or doubts.