The Mediterranean diet, already suspected of lowering the chances of heart attack and stroke, just got another ringing endorsement: Scientists out of the University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain, report that the same diet supplemented with either extra-virgin olive oil or nut also lowers the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD).

The Mediterranean diet incorporates the basics of healthy eating — plus a splash of flavorful olive oil and perhaps even a glass of red wine — among other components characterizing the traditional cooking style of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Though not particularly low in fat, the diet emphasizes heart-healthy elements like “good” fats (olive oil, nuts, little or no red meat) and using spices other than salt to season food. It’s also high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

For the study, the multicenter team examined nearly 7,500 participants: 3,140 men aged 55 to 80, and 4,337 women aged 60 to 80. articipants were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil; a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts; or counseling on a low-fat diet (control group). To be eligible, the participants could not have clinical PAD or baseline cardiovascular disease, but all had either type 2 diabetes mellitus or at least 3 cardiovascular risk factors.

After a 4.8 year median followup, there were 89 new cases of PAD. Both of the groups adhering to the enhanced Mediterranean diets demonstrated a lower risk for PAD.

PAD is a disease in which plaque (plak) builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the head, organs, and limbs. Approximately 8 million people in the United States have PAD, including 12-20% of individuals older than age 60, according to the CDC.