Scientific Evidence for how the Mediterranean Diet lowers risk of Heart Disease

According to a report by BioMed, breakfasts rich in virgin olive oil affect geneThe basic unit of genetic material carried on chromosomes. expression in a way that may explain the health benefits associated with this diet.  In total, 98 genes were identified which were differentially expressed depending on the trial participants’ breakfast type. Several of the repressed genes are known to be involved in pro-inflammatory processes.

This study shows that intake of virgin olive oil based breakfast can affect the expression of several genes involved in switching on the process of inflammationThe body’s response to injury., in particular the activity of white bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. cells to a less deleterious inflammatory profile. These results provide at least partial evidence for reduced risk of cardiovascular diseaseDisease of the heart and blood vessels, usually due to atherosclerosis. observed in Mediterranean countries, where virgin olive oil represents a main source of dietary fatOne of the three main food constituents (with carbohydrate and protein), and the main form in which energy is stored in the body.. Admittedly, other lifestyle factors are also likely to contribute to lowered risk of cardiovascular disease in this region.