scholarly journals Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Chronic Disease in Australia: National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey Analysis

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 1251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yasmine S. Aridi ◽  
Jacqueline L. Walker ◽  
Eugeni Roura ◽  
Olivia R. L. Wright
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Chronic Disease ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Mediterranean Country ◽  
The Mediterranean ◽  
Nutrition And Physical Activity ◽  
Activity Survey

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is linked to decreased risk of chronic disease, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and cognitive disease. Given the health promoting aspects of this diet, we conducted a secondary analysis of data from the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS), which is the largest health study in Australia and the first nutrition-specific national-based study. The primary aim of this analysis was to determine the proportion of Australian adults adhering to the MD and to examine the association between adherence to the MD and markers of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Out of the 9435 participants included in the study (mean age = 48.6 ± 17.6 years), 65% were in the middle tertile of the MD score. Participants who were married, employed, of a high-socioeconomic level, nonsmokers, educated and had a healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were more likely to have higher adherence levels to the MD, which was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, even after accounting for all possible confounders, higher adherence to the MD was associated with lower risk of dyslipidaemia, OR = 1.06 (1.01–1.10). In conclusion, this analysis is the first to assess adherence to the MD on a national level. Our results indicated that MD adherence may contribute to reducing the prevalence of dyslipidaemia, cerebrovascular disease and elevated blood pressure in a multi-ethnic, non-Mediterranean country.

Adhering to a Mediterranean diet in a Mediterranean country: an excess cost for families?

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-24
Author(s):  
Ricardo Alves ◽  
Carla Lopes ◽  
Sara Rodrigues ◽  
Julian Perelman
Keyword(s):  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Food Group ◽  
Food Prices ◽  
Mediterranean Country ◽  
Linear Regression Models ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Diet Cost ◽  
The Mediterranean ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Activity Survey

Abstract Background: Adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been decreasing in southern Europe, which could be linked to several cultural or educational factors. Our aim is to evaluate the extent to which economic aspects may also play a role, exploring the relationship between food prices in Portugal and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Methods: We evaluated data from the Portuguese National Food, Nutrition, and Physical Activity Survey (IAN-AF 2015-2016) (n=3,591). Diet expenditures were estimated by attributing a retail price to each food group and the diet was transposed into the Mediterranean Diet Score used in the literature. Prices were gathered from five supermarket chains (65% of the Portuguese market share). Linear regression models were used to assess the association between different adherence levels to the MD levels and dietary costs. Results: Greater adherence to the MD was associated with a 21.2% (p< 0.05) rise in total dietary cost, which accounts for more 0.59€ in mean daily costs when compared with low adherence. High adherence individuals (vs. low adherence) had higher absolute mean daily costs with fish (0.62€/+285.8%; p< 0.05), fruits (0.26€/+115.8%; p< 0.05), and vegetables (0.10€/+100.9%; p< 0.05). The analysis stratified by education and income level showed significantly higher mean daily diet cost only amongst higher income groups. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that greater adherence to the MD was positively and significantly associated with higher total dietary cost. Policies to improve population’s diet should take into consideration the cost of healthy foods, especially for large low- and middle-income families.

scholarly journals Effects of Olive Oil on Blood Pressure: Epidemiological, Clinical, and Mechanistic Evidence

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (6) ◽  
pp. 1548 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marika Massaro ◽  
Egeria Scoditti ◽  
Maria Annunziata Carluccio ◽  
Nadia Calabriso ◽  
Giuseppe Santarpino ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Olive Oil ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Antihypertensive Medications ◽  
Hypertensive Patients ◽  
High Oleic ◽  
The Mediterranean ◽  
The Impact

The increasing access to antihypertensive medications has improved longevity and quality of life in hypertensive patients. Nevertheless, hypertension still remains a major risk factor for stroke and myocardial infarction, suggesting the need to implement management of pre- and hypertensive patients. In addition to antihypertensive medications, lifestyle changes, including healthier dietary patterns, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to favorably affect blood pressure and are now recommended as integrative tools in hypertension management. An analysis of the effects of nutritional components of the Mediterranean diet(s) on blood pressure has therefore become mandatory. After a literature review of the impact of Mediterranean diet(s) on cardiovascular risk factors, we here analyze the effects of olive oil and its major components on blood pressure in healthy and cardiovascular disease individuals and examine underlying mechanisms of action. Both experimental and human studies agree in showing anti-hypertensive effects of olive oil. We conclude that due to its high oleic acid and antioxidant polyphenol content, the consumption of olive oil may be advised as the optimal fat choice in the management protocols for hypertension in both healthy and cardiovascular disease patients.

scholarly journals Integrated Role of Nutrition and Physical Activity for Lifelong Health

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 1437 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karsten Koehler ◽  
Clemens Drenowatz
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Body Composition ◽  
Metabolic Diseases ◽  
Musculoskeletal Health ◽  
Healthy Nutrition ◽  
Improve Body Composition ◽  
Nutrition And Physical Activity

It is well established that healthy nutrition and physical activity (PA) are key lifestyle factors that modulate lifelong health through their ability to improve body composition, musculoskeletal health, and physical and cognitive performance, as well as to prevent metabolic diseases including obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease across the lifespan [...]

scholarly journals Delivery of a 3-month Mediterranean diet and physical activity lifestyle intervention via artificial-intelligence chatbot, can achieve behaviour change: MedLiPal pilot-study

2020 ◽  
Vol 79 (OCE2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen Murphy ◽  
Courtney Davis ◽  
Rachel Curtis ◽  
Carol Maher
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Artificial Intelligence ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Chronic Disease ◽  
Waist Circumference ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Behaviour Change ◽  
Health Behaviour ◽  
User Satisfaction ◽  
Group Setting

AbstractPoor diet and physical inactivity are leading modifiable causes of death and chronic disease. Robust evidence confirms that the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) reduces mortality and cardiovascular disease risk, and promotes healthy longevity. However, MedDiet interventions are typically resource intensive, requiring regular face-to-face visits, in a one-on-one or small group setting. The rapid growth of Artificial-Intelligence (chatbot) technology has created new possibilities for low-cost, personalised health behaviour programs. We aimed to assess whether a 12-week MedDiet and physical activity intervention delivered entirely via technology (chatbot, website, wrist-worn activity tracker) could result in health behaviour change in 30 adults aged 57 ± 8 years. Volunteers’ height, body weight, waist circumference and blood pressure were measured in clinic at baseline, week 6 and 12. Introduction of the MedDiet and physical activity recommendations were conducted through a website with short videos and written sections assisted by the chatbot. Participants were encouraged to interact with the chatbot program at least weekly for 12-weeks. The MedDiet component of the program was modelled on the MedLey trial, whilst physical activity used step count goal-setting using a Garmin Vivofit 4 wrist-worn tracker. Diet and self-reported physical activity outcomes were measured using the 14-point MedDiet questionnaire and Active Australia Survey. The study achieved 93% retention over the 12-weeks and with excellent user engagement and satisfaction. There was a significant increase in the MedDiet score from 3 ± 3.5 (out of 14) at baseline, to 11 ± 3 at weeks 6 and 12, (p < 0.001). Weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity minutes increased from 135 ± 196 at baseline, to 210 ± 233 and 300 ± 433 mins, at weeks 6 and 12, respectively, (p < 0.001). Waist circumference decreased from 99 ± 28 to 98 ± 27 and 96 ± 25 cm, at weeks 6 and 12, respectively, (p < 0.001). BMI decreased from 29 ± 10 to 28 ± 9 at week 6 and 28 ± 10 at week 12 (P < 0.05). There was no change in blood pressure. Our pilot data confirm that the chatbot together with informational website and wearable intervention approach achieved excellent user satisfaction and preliminary efficacy of behaviour change across a 12-week period. Further research employing a randomized-controlled design, and high quality outcome measures is warranted to confirm efficacy and sustainability of behaviour change. However, these early results suggest that this innovative, comprehensive chatbot-based approach may be an appealing and feasible strategy suitable for mass-dissemination to assist dietary and physical activity related behaviour, leading to a widespread reduction in risk factors for chronic disease.

scholarly journals Nut consumption in a representative survey of Australians: a secondary analysis of the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey

2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (18) ◽  
pp. 3368-3378 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cassandra J Nikodijevic ◽  
Yasmine C Probst ◽  
Marijka J Batterham ◽  
Linda C Tapsell ◽  
Elizabeth P Neale
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Waist Circumference ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Current Evidence Base ◽  
Nutrition And Physical Activity ◽  
Activity Survey ◽  
Nut Intake

AbstractObjective:Nut consumption is associated with a range of health benefits. The current study aimed to examine nut consumption in the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS) and to investigate associations between nut intake, nutrient intake and anthropometric and blood pressure measurements.Design:Secondary analysis of the 2011–2012 NNPAS. Usual consumption of nuts in the 2011–2012 NNPAS was determined, and nut consumption was compared with population recommendations of 30 g nuts per day. The relationship between nut consumption and intakes of key nutrients, anthropometric outcomes (weight, BMI and waist circumference) and blood pressure was examined using linear regression for participants aged over 18 years.Setting:Australia.Participants:Australians (2 years and older, n 12 153) participating in the representative 2011–2012 NNPAS.Results:Mean nut intake was 4·61 (95 % CI: 4·36, 4·86) g/d, with only 5·6 % of nut consumers consuming 30 g of nuts per day. Nut consumption was associated with significantly greater intakes of fibre, vitamin E, Fe, Mg and P. There was no association between nut consumption and body weight, BMI, waist circumference, or blood pressure.Conclusions:Exploration of nut consumption in a representative sample of Australians identified that nut intake does not meet recommendations. Higher nut consumption was not adversely associated with higher body weight, aligning with the current evidence base. Given the current levels of nut consumption in Australia, strategies to increase nut intake to recommended levels are required.

scholarly journals Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Selected Lifestyle Elements among Young Women with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus from Northeast Poland: A Case-Control COVID-19 Survey

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 1173
Author(s):  
Monika Grabia ◽  
Anna Puścion-Jakubik ◽  
Renata Markiewicz-Żukowska ◽  
Joanna Bielecka ◽  
Anita Mielech ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Type 1 Diabetes ◽  
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Young Women ◽  
Screen Time ◽  
Healthy Population ◽  
The Mediterranean

An appropriate balanced diet and dietary patterns are important at every stage of life, but in the case of young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), it is especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the study was to assess health and nutritional behaviors, mainly adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland among women with T1DM, and to compare them with a healthy population. This survey (based on a questionnaire) was conducted in December 2020 and included 219 young women, healthy (n = 106) and with T1DM (n = 113), from northeast Poland. Over 30% of the study group admitted that they did not engage in any physical activity. A large proportion declared that their screen time was 5–7 h a day (48% in control and 40% in T1DM group). High intakes of sweet-beverages, sweets and red meat, but also low intakes of olive oil, fish and nuts were observed. The vast majority of participants (60% vs. 71%) were moderately adherent to the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS). The study demonstrated that despite the similarity between the behaviors of healthy people and those with T1DM, negative health and nutritional practices, such as low physical activity, long screen time, medium and high levels of stress and inappropriate eating habits were observed.

Strong inverse associations of Mediterranean diet, physical activity and their combination with cardiovascular disease: The Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) cohort

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (11) ◽  
pp. 1186-1197 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ismael Alvarez-Alvarez ◽  
Javier Pérez de Rojas ◽  
Alejandro Fernandez-Montero ◽  
Itziar Zazpe ◽  
Miguel Ruiz-Canela ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Disease Risk ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease Risk ◽  
Hazard Ratio ◽  
Inverse Association ◽  
Active Lifestyle ◽  
The Mediterranean ◽  
Reduced Risk

Background Inverse associations of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and physical activity with cardiovascular disease have been previously reported. We investigated the individual and combined contributions of both to this inverse association in a Mediterranean cohort. Design We used data from 19,536 participants from a prospective cohort of Spanish university graduates, the ‘Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra’ (SUN) cohort, followed up between December 1999 and December 2016. Methods Adherence to the MedDiet was obtained from a 136-item validated food-frequency questionnaire and categorized in tertiles using four previously reported dietary scores. A validated questionnaire assessed the physical activity levels according to volume, intensity and frequency. Results Participants were followed up during a median time of 10.4 years. Compared with the lowest category of adherence to the MedDiet (≤3 in the Mediterranean Diet Score), higher adherence (6–9 points) was strongly inversely associated with cardiovascular disease (multivariable adjusted hazard ratio = 0.33; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20–0.55). Also, engaging in an active lifestyle (6–8 points in an eight-item score) compared with low activity (<2 points) was associated with a reduced risk of incident cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio = 0.43; 95% CI 0.20–0.90). Greater adherence to the MedDiet and engaging in high levels of active lifestyle showed a 75% relatively reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio = 0.25; 95% CI 0.13–0.48). Conclusions The combined effect of adherence to the MedDiet and adopting an active lifestyle showed a synergistic inverse association with cardiovascular disease risk.

scholarly journals The 3-Year Effect of the Mediterranean Diet Intervention on Inflammatory Biomarkers Related to Cardiovascular Disease

Biomedicines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (8) ◽  
pp. 862
Author(s):  
Mireia Urpi-Sarda ◽  
Rosa Casas ◽  
Emilio Sacanella ◽  
Dolores Corella ◽  
Cristina Andrés-Lacueva ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Mediterranean Diet ◽  
Virgin Olive Oil ◽  
Extra Virgin Olive Oil ◽  
Inflammatory Biomarkers ◽  
Year Effect ◽  
Tnf Α ◽  
The Mediterranean ◽  
Anti Inflammatory

The intervention with the Mediterranean diet (MD) pattern has evidenced short-term anti-inflammatory effects, but little is known about its long-term anti-inflammatory properties at molecular level. This study aims to investigate the 3-year effect of MD interventions compared to low-fat diet (LFD) on changes on inflammatory biomarkers related to atherosclerosis in a free-living population with a high-risk of cardiovascular disease (CD). Participants (n = 285) in the PREDIMED trial were randomly assigned into three intervention groups: MD with extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) or MD-Nuts, and a LFD. Fourteen plasma inflammatory biomarkers were determined by Luminex assays. An additional pilot study of gene expression (GE) was determined by RT-PCR in 35 participants. After 3 years, both MDs showed a significant reduction in the plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IFN-γ, hs-CRP, MCP-1, MIP-1β, RANTES, and ENA78 (p < 0.05; all). The decreased levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α after MD significantly differed from those in the LFD (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed at the gene level after MD interventions, however, the GE of CXCR2 and CXCR3 tended to increase in the control LFD group (p = 0.09). This study supports the implementation of MD as a healthy long-term dietary pattern in the prevention of CD in populations at high cardiovascular risk.

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