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The newsletter of the University of Navarra and the IOC dedicated to health
This week’s newsletter highlights the importance of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) and of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), which constitutes the main source of fat in this dietary pattern. Both are associated with numerous health benefits, particularly for the cardiovascular system, the fight against obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic disorders.
In this first part, we will focus on the benefits of EVOO consumption on a related emerging public issue, which is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A study was conducted on the effect of EVOO consumption on mortality in a cohort from southern Italy involving 2754 participants. Results revealed a statistically negative effect of EVOO consumption on mortality for the whole sample. Mortality rates according to EVOO consumption categories showed statistically significant effects with consumption of 31 to 40 g/day and >40 g/day. Moreover, the protective effect was stronger in the subcohort of patients diagnosed with NAFLD, especially for the highest levels of EVOO consumption.
Concurrently, emotional wellbeing and mental health are gaining considerable attention in the scientific field. Worldwide, mental health problems are on the rise. A study on university students in Italy found that factors related to gender, lifestyle, diet, and university factors predicted adherence to the MedDiet. Moreover, a significant association was found between following the MedDiet and maintaining better mental health. The study provides insight into mental health issues and low adherence to the MedDiet among university students, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues through targeted interventions.
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