World Diets and What They Tell Us...

Different cultures have preferences for different foods and eating habits. We can learn a lot from this. Let's take a look at some of these differences and their effects on health....

http://www.eat-well-to-be-well.com/world-diets.htm

Since I wrote the article above, a new study has come out with supporting information. After only 3 months of eating a Mediterranean-style diet, study participants reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease by approximately 15 percent.

Mediterranean diets emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, low-fat dairy, and olive oil. Planning your meals around these items may be even better for your heart than a low-fat diet.

Two groups of participants with moderate risk factors for cardiovascular disease were placed on a Mediterranean-type diet or a low-fat diet for 3 months. By the end of the study, members of both groups experienced improvements in body mass index, blood lipids, and other risk factors. While those in the low-fat diet group reduced their risk for cardiovascular disease by an estimated 9 percent, participants in the Mediterranean-diet group lowered their disease risk by approximately 15 percent.

There are abundant disease-fighting nutrients in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, nuts, and fish.

• Whole grains are rich in fiber, magnesium, and B-vitamins
• Fruits and vegetables are filled with heart-healthy antioxidants
• Olive oil, fish, and nuts provide artery-friendly mono- and polyunsaturated fats.

Your health is the most important issue that concerns you. Take better care of it through your nutrition choices. You'll look, feel, think, and live much better than ever before!