BIOLOGY 105 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Mediterranean Diet, Monounsaturated Fat, Olive Oil
Document Summary
Learning objectives: compare and contrast the diversity of vegetarian and mostly plant-based (semi-vegetarian) diets. Spanish researchers conducted an experiment to assign different groups of people to a certain diet. Rich in fruit, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and whole grains. Low in processed and red meats, dairy products, and sweets. Given weekly gifts of high-quality olive oil to encourage their consumption of this rich source of monounsaturated fat. Had a 30% reduced risk of heart problems compared with low-fat dieters. Other diet group was given gifts of mixed nuts to foster an increase of their nut intake. Had a 28% reduced risk of heart problems or heart-related death compared to low-fat dieters. Told to reduce intake of all types of fat and consume lean meats, low-fat dairy products, cereals, potatoes, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables. Results were so successful, they had to stop it short. Mediterranean diet worked so well to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease deaths.
