Nuts, Fruits and Olive Oils Reverse Metabolic Syndrome: Study

Mediterranean diet helps reverse conditions that cause metabolic syndrome, finds a study.

Metabolic syndrome is categorized by high levels of triglycerides, blood pressure and blood sugar. This condition is a major risk factor for diabetes, heart attack, stroke and cancer.  According to a recent study, about 30 percent of the U.S. adults suffer from metabolic syndrome. A new study by Spanish research team discovered the benefits of consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and olive oil. The experts observed over 5,800 men and women aged between 55 and 80 who were instructed to follow either the Mediterranean diet with extra-virgin olive oil and nuts or a normal diet. About 64 percent of the participants were diagnosed with symptoms of metabolic syndrome at the beginning of the trial, reports the Medical News Today.

After five years, nearly 28.2 percent of those with the condition and who strictly followed the diet, experienced massive improvements in health. Majority of their ailments including hypertension, excess body fat and high blood glucose levels reduced significantly after ardently eating nutrient rich diet.

"There were no between-group differences in weight loss or energy expenditure, the change is likely attributable to the difference in dietary patterns. We found no beneficial effect of a Mediterranean diet on incidence of new-onset metabolic syndrome," said Jordi Salas-Salvadó, a co-author of the study, reports the Time.

"Such diets may be useful in reducing central obesity and hyperglycemia in patients with high risk of cardiovascular disease," adds Salvadó.

More information is available online in the journal Canadian Medical Association.