Adherence to a Mediterranean diet – including extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and tree nuts -- significantly reduces the incidence of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, according to a study published earlier this month in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Persons at risk for cardiovascular disease were assigned to one of three experimental groups: a control group, a Mediterranean diet with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) group and a Mediterranean diet with nuts group. The control group was encouraged to eat a low-fat diet, including low-fat dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean fish and seafood with bread, potatoes and rice. The Mediterranean diet groups were encouraged to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, fish (especially fatty fish), legumes, lean white meats, olive oil or tree nuts, and to drink wine with meals. The three dietary groups were followed over time; with the primary end points as incidence of heart attack, stroke, and death from “cardiovascular events”.Results of the study indicate a 30% reduction in the incidence of cardiovascular events in persons assigned to the Mediterranean diet groups as compared to Control. Authors of the study halted its progression, calling it unethical to continue in light of their findings.
Adopt a Mediterranean diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts, red wine, beans and fish, to decrease your risk of cardiovascular events.
Lexingtonians, check out Sahara International Market and Traditional Butcher Shop in Beaumont or Ali Baba off of Southland Drive for authentic Mediterranean fare and goods.
References
Kolata, G. (2013). Mediterranean Diet Shown to Ward Off Heart Attach and Stroke. The New York Times.
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