Diet and Health Continued

Three studies have recently been published in the nutritional journals that just emphasize what I have been "ranting" about in many posts.

In the first, another study confirmed that the Mediterranean diet, consisting of fruits and vegetables, olive oil and nuts and similar healthy foods was associated with a 30% lower mortality from heart attacks and strokes.

In another, a high fiber diet resulted in lower rates of heart disease. Every 7-g daily increase in total dietary fiber intake (e.g., the amount in about 1 cup of bran flakes, 1 cup of raw green peas, or 2 apples) resulted in a 10% decrease in risk; the recommendation is for at least 25gms per day.

And finally, a retrospective study showed that a metabolite of the now banned pesticide DDT has a close correlation with Alzheimer's disease. DDT was banned in 1972; not because of its affects on man, but because it was getting into the food chain and killing higher animals like eagles. This is another reason to eat organic.

I personally try and eat organic whenever possible; and also feel guilty any day without a salad or high fiber intake. And I feel great!