Researchers in A Estrada, a rural community in northwestern Spain, have made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the traditional Atlantic diet. The Atlantic diet, prevalent in northwestern Spain and northern Portugal, is believed to have significant health benefits, including reducing belly fat and improving HDL “good” cholesterol levels, according to a recent study published in JAMA Network Open.
The study, which followed over 200 families from the community, found that those who followed the Atlantic diet experienced improved waist circumference and HDL cholesterol levels. Families were instructed to incorporate a diet rich in fish, seafood, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, olive oil, dried fruits, milk, cheese, and moderate meat and wine intake.
Over a period of 6 months, researchers closely monitored the participants’ dietary intake, physical activity, medication use, and other variables. The results indicated that those who adhered to the Atlantic diet showcased significant improvements in metabolic health compared to those who continued with their typical diet.
Nutrition experts such as Michelle Routhenstein, a registered dietitian nutritionist, and Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a California-based interventional cardiologist, expressed their support for the Atlantic diet’s potential health benefits. Routhenstein noted that the emphasis on nutrient-dense foods and traditional cooking methods in the Atlantic diet enhances the body’s ability to absorb and utilize nutrients.
Furthermore, researchers highlighted the similarities between the Atlantic diet and the well-studied Mediterranean diet, both of which have shown potential in reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke, and cognitive decline.
While the study found promising results, the researchers acknowledged that the 6-month duration may not have been sufficient to fully assess metabolic changes. However, the potential of the Atlantic diet to improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases is a significant finding that merits further exploration and research.