COUNTLESS benefits have now been attributed to the Mediterranean diet, and researchers around the world continue to be fascinated with it. Two new scientific studies praise its merits yet again, finding that it may be helpful in reducing the risk of dementia, as well as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death in women.
If you're not already a convert of the Mediterranean diet, these studies should help convince you.
Voted best diet in the world for the sixth year consecutively by the American publication U.S. News & World Report, the Mediterranean diet continues to make headlines as more of its benefits get discovered or at least validated by science.
This is again the case, as two new studies have revealed more virtues of eating this way. In addition to its effects on passive smoking, cognitive functioning, skin and even premature aging, the Mediterranean diet has now shown its superiority in more areas of wellness: researchers have found that it's associated with a lower risk of dementia and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in women.
Combating dementia
Scientists from the University of Newcastle investigated the link between the Mediterranean diet and the risk of dementia. Published in the journal BMC Medicine, their work is based on data from 60,298 people from the UK Biobank, a large cohort of individuals from all over the United Kingdom, followed for a decade.
They suggest that "eating a more Mediterranean-like diet could be one strategy to help individuals lower their risk of dementia."
Another finding of the researchers, who took into account the genetic risk of dementia for each individual, was that a better diet could also reduce the likelihood of developing any dementia for those with a higher genetic risk.
However, they caution that "this finding was not consistent across all the analyses and the authors propose further research is needed to assess the interaction between diet and genetics on dementia risk."
However, their research could boost prevention efforts by emphasizing the importance of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.
Benefits for women
In another study, a team of researchers looked at no less than 190 surveys conducted mainly in the United States and Europe, analyzing the potential impact of a Mediterranean diet on women's cardiovascular health and risk of death.
In total, they selected 16 studies published between 2003 and 2021 involving more than 700,000 women aged 18 years and over, whose cardiovascular health was monitored for an average of 12.5 years.
Published in the medical journal Heart, their research suggests that women who adopt a Mediterranean diet could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 24% and the risk of death from all causes by 23%.
However, the scientists point out that their work has some limitations, particularly because it is based mainly on observation and self-reported questionnaires.
Nevertheless, they intend to continue their research to determine whether the Mediterranean diet can indeed be taken into account as a means of prevention against cardiovascular disease.
"It is possible that preventative measures, such as a Mediterranean diet, that targets inflammation and CVD risk factors, impose differing effects in women compared with men," outline the researchers.
Two new studies confirm once again the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole plant-based and seafood components.
Vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, herbs, fish and shellfish are among the key ingredients of the Mediterranean diet, which also emphasizes olive oil, preferably virgin and cold pressed.
ETX Studio
Wed Mar 22 2023
A lower risk of dementia, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in women are among the benefits of following a Mediterranean diet. - ETX Studio
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.