What's Up!

June 2, 2019

What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!

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featured dining guide story Advertorial Feature SPECIAL TO nwA DEmOCrAT-GAzETTE The Mediterranean Diet 42 What's up! JuNE 2-8, 2019 T he Mediterranean diet is based on the foods and beverages traditionally consumed by people living in countries along the Mediterranean Sea. But you don't have to look any further than your local farmers market to find its fresh flavors. It is now recognized as an eating pattern that can promote lifelong good health. While following a Mediterranean diet does not guarantee better health and increased lifespan, scientists believe that for many people it is a cost-effective way to improve health and prevent chronic disease. Following the Mediterranean diet can lead to: • Decreased risk of death from all causes, including heart disease and cancer • Reduced risk for cardiovascular disease • Reduction in inflammation which increases heart disease risk • Decreased risk for hypertension • Lower abdominal obesity • Decreased risk for metabolic syndrome • Reduced risk for type 2 diabetes • Improved glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes • Reduced risk for overall cancer, cancers associated with the gastrointestinal tract and post- menopausal breast cancer • Reduced risk of stroke, Alzheimer's disease and dementia • Improved cognitive function A landmark study published in 2014 demonstrated that a high-unsaturated fat and antioxidant-rich dietary pattern such as the Mediterranean diet is a useful tool in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. What are typical Mediterranean Diet foods? The Mediterranean diet focuses on fish and seafood as a primary source of protein with fruits and vegetables serving as the base of your food intake. It is also recommended to drink plenty of water and get physical exercise regularly. • fresh rather than processed foods • foods lower in saturated fats, salt and sugar • plant- based foods rich including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, beans and nuts • olive oil as the primary source of fat • cheese, yogurt, fish, poultry and eggs which are eaten in low to moderate amounts. • small amount of red meat • wine, in moderation The traditional Mediterranean diet consists of minimally processed, seasonally fresh, locally grown grains, vegetables, fruits and nuts eaten at most meals.

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