Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of the most common cause of blindness - macular degeneration of the eye...

 

Every now and then some new research points out another benefit of the Mediterranean diet, which proves the versatility and benefits of its ingredients.

Recently, the Australian research has found that people who consumed at least 100 milliliters of olive oil per week are 50 percent more protected from macular degeneration of the eye compared to subjects who consume less than a milliliter of olive oil. The study included 6700 persons aged between 58 and 69 years in 1990-ies. Experts caught them up between years 2003 and 2006, and analyzed  their eye health in relation to their diet.

Although the Mediterranean diet is based on this elixir of health, it is not exclusively responsible for protecting the eyes. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, reduce the risk of macular degeneration development in the eye by 15 percent.

The author of this study by the Australian Centre for exploration of the eye Dr. Elaine Chong said that olive oil contains many protective elements that contribute to preserving eye health. "Olive oil is rich in powerful antioxidants, like vitamin E. It also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, like ibuprofen, which helps protect blood vessels in the eye."

The famous advantage of the Mediterranean cuisine lies in the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, pasta, whole grains, vegetable and olive oils, nuts, fish and shellfish, and moderate amounts of red wine which is known to be excellent for the heart. On the other hand, it calls for a reduced intake of saturated fatty acids, dairy products, meat and poultry.

"A diet rich in olive oil and other foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna, or nuts, may help protect the eyes against macular degeneration and other diseases," said Dr Chong.

Senile macular degeneration of the eye affects 30 percent of people older than 75 years. With this disease, the macula (a small area of the retina that provides central vision) deteriorates with time, and a  patient can not directly focus on objects he or she is looking at. Thus, everyday activities like reading or driving are impossible.

The results of long-term studies have confirmed that the Mediterranean diet can help those suffering from diabetes to control blood sugar without medication use. Also, the French study showed that the Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of developing cancer in women who are past menopause, and those who prefer the Mediterranean diet have a smaller risk of developing depression.

Taken from: www.ordinacija.hr