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Also known as the southern European Atlantic diet, the Atlantic diet is the traditional eating pattern of Galicia and northern Portugal. It is characterized by a high consumption of fish (especially cod), legumes, vegetables and potatoes (frequently in the form of broth), whole wheat bread, dairy products, red meat and pork sausages. To this we must add the consumption of locally produced wine, especially with meals.
But to what extent is it healthy? Does it fare well if we compare it, for example, with the Mediterranean diet? And what real impact does it have on the environment?
Tangible health benefits
First of all, we must say that consuming the Atlantic diet is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Specifically, it has been linked to a lower incidence of acute myocardial infarction and lower levels of coronary risk markers (inflammation, triglycerides), as well as with a decrease in the insulin resistancethe blood pressurethe arterial stiffness and the mortality from cardiovascular causes at all ages.
Furthermore, in older people, it has shown benefits on the risk of dying similar to those of the Mediterranean diet. This suggests that there are many ways to eat healthily, based on the foods specific to each environment or region. This is corroborated by a recent study of four European countries, where it was revealed that greater adherence to the Atlantic diet is linked to a lower mortality from all causes and, specifically, from cancer. Again, the effects observed were similar to those of other healthy dietary patterns.
Mental health is another area in which it seems to have beneficial effects. Thus, an international investigation found a relationship between the traditional diet of Galicia and northern Portugal and a lower risk of depressionand also in a similar way to the Mediterranean diet.
Although it can be explained by various reasons, some of the nutrients present in the foods of the Atlantic diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and magnesium, would play a relevant role in mental health problems.
Additionally, these and other bioactive compounds (polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins, etc.) could influence gene expression (the way cells use the information collected in DNA) and promote healthy aging. To the list of healthy components we must add spices such as paprika and some molecules of cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, turnip greens), which could have certain anti-cancer properties.
And if that were not enough, it has been observed that the diet in question improves fatty acid composition y certain minerals in breast milk, which could promote the health of infants. Another recent study showed that this dietary pattern can positively influence intestinal bacteriawhich would have implications for digestive and general health.
All the research cited so far is observational; That is, scientists studied existing eating habits and related them to one or more health measures. An intervention study that provided participants with foods typical of the Atlantic diet (cabbage, tomatoes, cheese, mussels, wine, etc.) along with advice on their consumption detected a reduction of body weight, cholesterol y metabolic syndrome (a combination of cardiovascular risk factors) among volunteers.
Less sustainable than the Mediterranean
Nowadays, environmental sustainability is a key aspect when evaluating any nutritional pattern, including the Atlantic diet. However, this may vary from one definition to anotherwell there are different visions of what the traditional diet of Galicia and northern Portugal was like.
Compared to the so-called Western diet (predominant in many areas of Galicia today), the Atlantic one seems to be more sustainable in some studies, which show 15% lower greenhouse gas emissionsbut not in others, which estimate similar emissions.
A comparative work recently showed an association between greater adherence to this diet and less environmental impact (land use and greenhouse gas emissions). This impact was similar to other healthy dietary patterns, but somewhat higher than that of the Mediterranean diet.
The latter also comes out better when comparing greenhouse gas emissions and water use, which are 30 and 23% lower, respectively, than in the Atlantic. When each food group is analyzed separately, it seems that it is products of animal origin (mainly fish, meat and dairy) that tip the balance, since They are responsible for around 70% of the emissions linked to the Atlantic diet. Furthermore, the last two are not characteristic of the Mediterranean pattern.
A strategy to improve public health
In summary, the Atlantic diet appears to offer numerous health benefits, including preventing cardiovascular disease, reducing mortality, and improving mental health. Its environmental impact is more uncertain, and the fact that it includes a high consumption of fish, meat and dairy products means that its benefits in this regard may be less than the health benefits.
Adopting this dietary pattern, especially in Galicia and northern Portugal, can be an effective strategy to improve public health and, with some modifications, could also reduce the impact on the environment.
**How does the emphasis on locally sourced seafood in the Atlantic diet contribute to both its health benefits and potential environmental impact?**
## Interview: Diving Deep into the Atlantic Diet
**Introduction:**
Welcome back to World Today News! Today, we delve into the intricacies of the Atlantic diet – a traditional eating pattern steeped in the rich culinary heritage of Galicia and northern Portugal. Joining us to explore its health benefits, environmental impact, and place in the modern world are two esteemed experts: **Dr. Maria Silva, a leading nutritionist and researcher**, and **Chef Rosa Gomez, a renowned culinary ambassador for Galician cuisine**.
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**Section 1: Health Benefits and Comparisons**
* **Dr. Silva, the article highlights numerous health benefits associated with the Atlantic diet, from reducing cardiovascular risks to boosting mental well-being. Could you elaborate on a few of these benefits and the scientific evidence supporting them?**
* **Chef Gomez, how do you see these health benefits reflected in traditional Galician cooking practices and lifestyle?**
* **Dr. Silva, many people are familiar with the Mediterranean diet. How does the Atlantic diet compare in terms of health outcomes and nutritional composition? Where do they diverge?**
* **Both guests, are there any populations or individuals for whom the Atlantic diet might be particularly beneficial or potentially less suitable?**
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**Section 2: Environmental Sustainability**
* **Dr. Silva, the article mentions that the environmental sustainability of the Atlantic diet is a point of ongoing discussion. What are some of the key factors contributing to this debate?**
* **Chef Gomez, traditional cuisine often emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients. Does the traditional Atlantic diet naturally lend itself to sustainable practices, or are there areas for potential improvement?**
* **Dr. Silva, compared to other dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet, how does the Atlantic diet fare in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and overall environmental footprint?**
* **Both guests, what specific changes could be made to the Atlantic diet to enhance its sustainability without compromising its health benefits and cultural significance?**
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**Section 3: Future of the Atlantic Diet**
* **Chef Gomez, how do you see the Atlantic diet evolving in the modern world? What role can chefs and culinary traditions play in promoting its benefits and ensuring its resilience?**
* **Dr. Silva, what are some of the key challenges and opportunities for integrating the Atlantic diet into public health initiatives and dietary guidelines?**
* **Both guests, looking ahead, what do you envision as the future of the Atlantic diet? How can it contribute to both individual well-being and a more sustainable food system?**
**Closing:**
Thank you, Dr. Silva and Chef Gomez, for this insightful conversation! We’ve gained a deeper understanding of the Atlantic diet’s multifaceted nature, its strengths and challenges. This discussion undoubtedly raises important questions about the relationship between food, health, and the environment.
We extend our thanks to our viewers for tuning in. Please join us again for further explorations into the world of nutrition, food culture, and sustainability.
