Share:
A Mediterranean diet protects the heart very special
There are already several studies that give health benefits to a Mediterranean diet. Researchers have now discovered that a so-called traditional Mediterranean diet with the addition of olive oil can improve the functions of healthy HDL cholesterol in the blood and thus lower the risk of heart disease.
The researchers at the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute in Barcelona found in their study that a Mediterranean diet with the addition of olive oil protects against heart disease and has a positive effect on the function of HDL cholesterol. The physicians published the results of their study in the journal "Circulation".
A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil can effectively protect people from heart disease. So-called high-density lipoproteins (HDL) show improved functions due to this type of diet. (Image: Reicher / fotolia.com) What types of food contains a Mediterranean diet?
A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil enhances the function of high-density lipoproteins (HDL). These are popularly known as good or healthy cholesterol, says the Spanish author. Alvaro Hernáez. Such a diet usually includes many fruits and legumes rich in antioxidants. In addition, many vegetables, whole grains and olive oil are consumed. In the Mediterranean diet, protein sources such as chicken and fish are preferred over red meat, which contains more saturated fatty acids.
Better protected HDL can perform biological functions more efficiently
Our hypothesis is that the antioxidants can bind to HDL particles and protect them against various types of attacks, the researchers explain. By better protecting high-density lipoproteins, they can perform their biological functions more efficiently. So they are better able to remove cholesterol from arteries or contribute to the relaxation of blood vessels, the experts add.
HDL can remove excess LDL from the blood
High levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), called bad cholesterol, are also referred to as triglycerides, the researchers say. These are associated with an increased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. HDL, on the other hand, leads to a lower risk because it can remove excess LDL from the blood. Harmful deposits in the vessels are transported to the liver. There they can be broken down by the human body.
Subjects were divided into three different nutrition groups
For the current study, the author Dr. Hernáez and his colleagues reviewed data from over 296 older adults at risk for cardiovascular disease. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three different dietary groups. One of these groups included a Mediterranean diet supplemented with increased consumption of extra virgin olive oil. Another group received a low-fat diet and the last group fed on a Mediterranean diet that was fortified with 30 grams of nuts per day, the researchers explain.
Subjects had to follow the recommended diet for one year
The participants in the study were on average 66 years old. Subjects were asked to follow their assigned diet for a period of one year, the authors say. Only the low-fat diet was associated with decreased LDL and total cholesterol, the researchers add. None of the diets studied significantly increased HDL levels. In the group, which had received a Mediterranean diet with the addition of olive oil, however, showed a better function of high-density lipoproteins.
Mediterranean diet reduces risk of heart disease and cancer
Some previous studies have already linked a Mediterranean diet to weight loss and reduced risk of heart disease and some cancers. However, it was still largely unclear whether the diet or other lifestyle choices are responsible, explain the researchers.
All diets tested have a positive impact on health
The limitations of the current study included the fact that all three types of nutrition were relatively healthy and had a positive impact on our health. Because of this, the authors found it difficult to identify meaningful differences in results.
Mediterranean diet helps people avoid heart disease
A Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of developing heart disease. The exact reason is still largely unknown, say the experts. There is probably more than one reason, but improving the functions of HDL through a Mediterranean diet with olive oil could be a mechanism, the researchers add. If people want to reduce their risk of heart disease, the Mediterranean diet is probably the best-tested diet to avoid this risk. (As)