The Trending Atlantic Diet: A Healthier Way to Eat
The Atlantic Diet has been gaining attention recently, with a new study published in JAMA highlighting its significant health benefits. This diet has been associated with a decreased risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol, ultimately reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Understanding the Atlantic Diet
Dietitian Rima Kleiner explains that the Atlantic Diet, also known as the Southern European Atlantic Diet, is inspired by the eating habits of northwest Spain and Portugal, sharing similarities with the famous Mediterranean diet. Both diets prioritize whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, as well as the practice of mindful eating. However, the Atlantic Diet stands out for its inclusion of lean meat, seafood, and dairy, along with different types of starches.
Exploring the Atlantic Diet
You can think of the Atlantic Diet as a variation of the Mediterranean diet with its own unique twists. It focuses on consuming local and seasonal foods such as vegetables, seafood, fruits, legumes, olive oil, whole grains, dairy, red meat, and pork. Some key foods included in the Atlantic Diet are a variety of fish, in-season vegetables, chestnuts, and potatoes as starches, dried fruits, beans, and citrus fruits like oranges and tangerines. Conversely, processed foods high in salt, sugar, and additives are discouraged.
The Health Benefits of the Atlantic Diet
Nutrition specialist Yelena Wheeler highlights the health benefits of the Atlantic Diet, emphasizing the positives of consuming a diverse range of nutritious foods while embracing a social and leisurely approach to eating. Particularly, the emphasis on seafood can provide essential omega-3 fatty acids for heart, brain, eye, and immune health. Additionally, the diet’s focus on fiber-rich vegetables can support gut health and help regulate cholesterol levels.
Similar to the Mediterranean diet, the Atlantic Diet promotes the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, gut health benefits, blood sugar stabilization, and cardiovascular disease risk reduction. Research published in December 2023 further supports the positive effects of the Atlantic Diet, demonstrating a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancers.
In essence, the Atlantic Diet offers a balanced and nourishing approach to eating, with a variety of health benefits that can contribute to overall well-being. Embracing this dietary pattern may not only improve health outcomes but also support weight management goals due to its fiber and lean protein content.