According to Dr. Anam Sohail Minhas, an assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine, this diet can also have significant health benefits during pregnancy.of Recent research Of the nearly 7,800 women reported in December, researchers found that those who followed the Mediterranean diet most strictly before, during, and during pregnancy had about a 21% lower risk of pregnancy complications. Did. preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or premature birth.
“It certainly seems to have a protective effect,” said Dr. Minhas.
However, the Mediterranean diet alone is not a panacea, Dr. Heffron said. It does not eliminate the possibility of developing cardiovascular disease, nor does it cure the disease.It is also important that people pay attention to other things heart health beliefsregular exercise and enough sleep, and no smoking.
Can the Mediterranean Diet Help You Lose Weight?
Diet can help you lose weight, says Zumpano, but you still need to watch your calories.
“Foods rich in nutrients are not necessarily low in calories,” Dr. Hefron said, adding that the diet includes foods such as olive oil and nuts. Large portion. But, for example, switching from a diet high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar to a diet that prioritizes vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins can help you lose weight, he says.
However, the Mediterranean diet is not intended for rapid weight loss.Rather, it should stimulate long-term changes in eating behavior. one study For example, a study of more than 30,000 people in Italy found that those who followed the most rigorous Mediterranean diet for about 12 years were more likely to be overweight or obese than those who followed the least rigorous diet. was found to be low.Ah smaller studieswas published in 2020 and enrolled 565 adults who had intentionally lost 10% or more of their body weight in the previous year. Those who reported sticking to the Mediterranean diet were found to be twice as likely to maintain their weight loss as those who did not.
How long do I need to be on the Mediterranean diet to see the benefits?
If you’re just starting the Mediterranean diet, limited evidence suggests that you may notice improvements in cognitive functions such as alertness, alertness, and satisfaction. One review of studies published in 2021 — Within the first 10 days. But for sustained, long-term heart health benefits, people need to stick with it, Zumpano said.
That said, she added, diet allows for some flexibility. The occasional cake or steak won’t detract from the overall benefits.
