IL18 and Insulin resistance: In a cross-sectional study, adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with lower levels of CRP and interleukin 6 (IL-6) and improved endothelial function.22,46,47 A 2-year Mediterranean diet intervention found significant lowering of CRP, IL-6, IL-7, and IL-18 as well as improved insulin resistance.48 These prior studies are consistent with the current findings of the mediation of associations for inflammatory and insulin-resistance biomarkers.