Chronic degenerative diseases (CDDs), from obesity to cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative conditions, contribute significantly to global disability and mortality. In a groundbreaking study published in Nutrients by Laura Di Renzo, Paola Gualtieri, and Antonino De Lorenzo, the crucial role of diet and nutrition in managing and preventing CDDs is thoroughly explored.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Global Challenge – Chronic Degenerative Diseases
With over 17 million premature deaths annually attributed to CDDs, the urgency to address their causes has never been more critical. Behavioral risk factors, including poor nutrition, insufficient fruit and vegetable intake, high BMI, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and low physical activity, are identified as major determinants.
The Impact of Diet on CDDs
The study emphasizes that dietary factors significantly contribute to CDDs. Reduced consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, coupled with high sodium intake, emerges as key dietary contributors to millions of attributable deaths each year.
Embracing the Mediterranean Diet
Several original articles within the study underscore the positive impact of the Mediterranean diet (MD) in preventing and managing various CDDs. The MD, characterized by olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, and moderate wine consumption, proves effective against obesity, cardiovascular and chronic kidney diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.
- Noce et al. highlight MD’s role in treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its comorbidities, focusing on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of extra virgin olive oil.
- Domingues et al. propose a creatine supplementation protocol to enhance functional capacity in patients with peripheral artery disease.
- Quattrini et al. explore MD adherence and dietary calcium intake for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
- Di Renzo et al. introduce a modified MD (mMeD), a low-carb diet enriched with antioxidants, as a strategy for treating lipoedema, reducing adipose tissue and improving quality of life.
- Lombardo et al. demonstrate MD’s efficacy, combined with aerobic activity, in promoting weight loss in postmenopausal women and reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
Polyphenols, Fatty Acids, and Fiber: Allies in Eubiosis
Merra et al.’s review highlights the importance of polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber abundant in the MD for controlling eubiosis. Given the link between gut dysbiosis and autoimmune diseases, the MD is recommended for patients with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Beyond the MD: Innovative Approaches
The study introduces innovative dietary approaches beyond the MD, emphasizing the consumption of active products from immature citrus fruits, reducing dietary acid load, and exploring the impact of energy intake changes on conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
A Call to Action: Redefining Dietary Patterns
The nutritional transition of recent decades, marked by a shift to diets high in saturated fats and sugars, emerges as a significant risk factor for CDDs. The study advocates for preventive interventions in lifestyle and eating behaviors, with a particular focus on promoting the Mediterranean diet and sustainable dietary patterns.
Bottom line
the battle against Chronic Degenerative Diseases (CDDs) requires a holistic approach, and the pivotal role of diet and nutrition cannot be overstated. The insightful exploration by Di Renzo, Gualtieri, and De Lorenzo sheds light on the profound impact of dietary choices, with a spotlight on the effectiveness of the Mediterranean diet and innovative approaches. As we navigate the challenges of a modern diet, embracing preventive interventions and adopting sustainable dietary patterns, particularly the Mediterranean diet, becomes paramount. Let this be a call to action for a healthier, disease-resistant future.