So you have hit the big five-oh and everyone and their dog has a tale to tell about the ups and downs of middle age.
Mostly downs.
The upside is that for every horror story, there is a romance too. In this case, the relationship between your stomach and your heart may be one that has a cheerful plot. The problem of course, is choosing your partner in crime.
Introducing the Mediterranean Diet, The Anti-Inflammatory Diet and the Plant-Based Diet.
The Mediterranean Diet
With an exotic blend of nuts, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and olive oil, the Mediterranean locals reportedly enjoy a 30% less chance of cardiovascular disease. Fish and poultry are the main sources of protein, consumed with healthy fats and little dairy or sugary foods. A little wine however, does not go amiss.
What was noted was that the effects of a Mediterranean diet is that this food regime actually proved to be as effectual as drug-therapy, without any negative side-effects. Drugs are considered to lower risks by 25%, but then the side-effects force you to take more drugs, which may in fact negate any potential help.
A simple plan, a simple procedure, but many enduring qualities, the Mediterranean Diet is the one that many are commonly drawn towards.
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Another theory of cardiovascular disease is that of inflammation – from chronic to low-levels, it increases the risk of heart problems and just bodily ones in general. Inflammation is suggested to be the melting pot of problems, rather than growing cholesterol.
True or not, it is suggested that you should avoid foods that have fatty acids, such as the ones found in vegetable oils, sugar and processed food, as well as foods such as soy, peanuts and wheat.
Furthermore, some gluten-based foods are restricted, such as wheat (gluten), dairy and nightshade vegetables (peppers, aubergines, tomatoes and potatoes). These particular restrictions however, may not be necessary.
Linked to diabetes, research at the American Diabetic Association suggests that, “If the anti-inflammatory diet reduces inflammatory cytokines (signals that tell your body to inflame),” they say, “it may be an important diet for people with various conditions, including inflammatory autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and IDDM.”
Because this diet is something of a grey area, it may be wise to consult a dietician.
The Plant-Based Diet
Also considered something of a vegan diet, the regime cuts out all animal products, limits fat and cuts out heart-healthy foods such as olive oil, avocados and nuts.
So why mention it?
Strange though it may be, the plant-based diet is said to reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease. This is when the blood flow (and oxygen) is restricted or reduced in one part of the body. It results in a series of heart problems as the heart arteries become narrowed, which means that less blood travels around the body. When this happens, sufferers will have sudden heart attacks. Prior to them however, there are complaints about chest pains or discomfort.
With the plant-based diet, it has been reported that those that live by it have a significant drop in cholesterol (which is hardly a surprise) and a widening of the heart arteries.
A completely different animal when it comes to nutrition, especially with its loss of olive oil and lack of processed foods. If you love your fruits and veg, you’ll love this diet.
Whichever you choose, the benefits for your body will tell its tale, with long-term improvements and a positive tweak in your lifestyle. In preventing the risks of cardiovascular disease, you have the chance to experience more, live more and love more in the future.
Live long, live happy.
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