Mediterranean Diet As Best Prevention For Cardiovascular Disease
In a recent study published early March 2013 online Monday by the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers conducted a randomized trial of the Mediterranean diet pattern for the primary prevention of cardiovascular events.
They designed a randomized trial to test the efficacy of two Mediterranean diets (one supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil and another with nuts), as compared with a control diet (advice on a low-fat diet), on primary cardiovascular prevention.
The study concluded that an energy-unrestricted Mediterranean diet, supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts, resulted in a substantial reduction in the risk of major cardiovascular events among high-risk persons. The results support the benefits of the Mediterranean diet for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
The traditional Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of olive oil, fruit, nuts, vegetables, and cereals; a moderate intake of fish and poultry; a low intake of dairy products, red meat, processed meats, and sweets; and wine in moderation, consumed with meals.
The study was conducted from October 2003 through June 2009, with a total of 8713 candidates, ages 55 to 80. All were free of heart disease at the start but were at high risk for it because of health problems – half had diabetes and most were overweight and had high cholesterol and blood pressure.
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They were assigned to one of three groups: Two followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with either extra-virgin olive oil (4 tablespoons a day) or with walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds (a fistful a day). The third group was urged to eat a low-fat diet heavy on bread, potatoes, pasta, rice, fruits, vegetables and fish and light on baked goods, nuts, oils and red meat.