The Health Benefits of the Atlantic Diet: A New Study Reveals Promising Results
In a world where fad diets come and go, it’s refreshing to see a new study shedding light on the health benefits of a lesser-known eating plan. The Atlantic diet, similar to the popular Mediterranean diet, is based on the dietary patterns of people living in northwest Spain and northern Portugal. These regions have some of the lowest incidences of heart disease, making the Atlantic diet an intriguing option for those looking to improve their health.
The most recent study, published in JAMA Network, focused on the effects of the Atlantic diet on metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. The study found that individuals who followed the Atlantic diet for six months had a lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome compared to those who stuck to their normal eating patterns.
While the Atlantic diet may not be as well-known as its Mediterranean counterpart, it has its own unique characteristics that make it worth considering. The diet is centered around local, fresh, and whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, bread, pulses, nuts, fish, and milk products. Starches like bread, pasta, rice, and cereals are consumed six to eight times per day, making them a staple in the Atlantic diet. Meat, mainly beef and pork, as well as eggs, are also included in moderation. Olive oil is used as a common condiment, and wine is enjoyed during mealtimes.
But it’s not just the types of food consumed that make the Atlantic diet special. The diet also emphasizes the style of cooking and eating. Communal eating is encouraged, bringing people together to share meals and enjoy each other’s company. Traditional cooking methods like stewing are utilized to enhance nutrient absorption. Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, explains that “the Atlantic diet promotes health through nutrient-rich foods and communal eating habits.”
So, what are the specific health benefits of the Atlantic diet? The recent study observed over 200 families and found that those who followed the diet had a lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides. These conditions are all risk factors for heart disease and stroke, making the Atlantic diet a potential game-changer in preventing these serious health issues.
The abundance of fish in the Atlantic diet is one of its key contributors to heart health. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce bodily inflammation and benefit the heart. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends that all adults eat fish at least twice a week to reduce the risk of heart attack.
Additionally, the combination of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, and nuts in the Atlantic diet provides fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients are crucial for heart health and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Meeting the daily recommended intake of fiber, which is 25 to 30 grams for adults, has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. Plant-based foods in the Atlantic diet are also rich in potassium and magnesium, which contribute to healthy blood pressure and heart function.
While the Atlantic diet shares similarities with the Mediterranean diet, there are some key differences. The Atlantic diet places more emphasis on ingredients like bread, fish, milk products, and potatoes, as well as some red meat. Stewing is a common cooking method in the Atlantic diet, and vegetable soup is a staple. On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet is more plant-forward and highlights ingredients like olive oil and plant-based foods.
Both diets have scientific evidence supporting their benefits for heart health. The Atlantic diet provides omega-3 fatty acids from seafood, while the Mediterranean diet offers antioxidants and healthy fats from olive oil and plant-based foods. However, the Mediterranean diet has a more extensive research base, particularly regarding its association with reduced cardiovascular risk.
While the Atlantic diet may not be as well-known as the Mediterranean diet, this new study is shedding light on its promising health benefits. With its emphasis on fresh, whole foods and communal eating habits, the Atlantic diet may soon gain popularity as a heart-healthy eating plan. So why not give it a try? Your heart will thank you.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com.
