"Mediterranean Diet", Rich in Unsaturated Fats, Improves Insulin Sensitivity Without Weight Loss

A research team from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine has detailed further evidence that foods associated with the “Mediterranean diet” reduce the risk for heart disease and increase the body’s ability to utilize insulin without weight loss.The study evaluated the cardiovascular effects of three different balanced diets on 164 people with mild hypertension, but without diabetes. The researchers compared the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and maintain healthy insulin levels while on either a “carbohydrate-rich” diet, a “protein-rich” diet or a diet rich in unsaturated fats. An ineffective use of insulin can develop into type 2 diabetes, increasing the risk for heart disease.Participants in the study stayed on each of the three diets for six consecutive weeks, with two to four weeks between starting a different plan. Blood samples collected after fasting periods in weeks four and six of each diet were used to monitor insulin and glucose levels. The study was designed to keep participants at their starting weights specifically to eliminate weight loss as a potential factor.The data showed that a generally balanced diet higher in unsaturated fats such as those in avocados, olive oil and nuts improved insulin use significantly more than a diet high in carbohydrates, and particularly refined carbs like white bread and pasta. Importantly, dietary changes improved insulin effectiveness and reduced cardiovascular risk without weight loss.A research team from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine has detailed further evidence that foods associated with the “Mediterranean diet” reduce the risk for heart disease and increase the body’s ability to utilize insulin without weight loss.The study evaluated the cardiovascular effects of three different balanced diets on 164 people with mild hypertension, but without diabetes. The researchers compared the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and maintain healthy insulin levels while on either a “carbohydrate-rich” diet, a “protein-rich” diet or a diet rich in unsaturated fats. An ineffective use of insulin can develop into type 2 diabetes, increasing the risk for heart disease.Participants in the study stayed on each of the three diets for six consecutive weeks, with two to four weeks between starting a different plan. Blood samples collected after fasting periods in weeks four and six of each diet were used to monitor insulin and glucose levels. The study was designed to keep participants at their starting weights specifically to eliminate weight loss as a potential factor.The data showed that a generally balanced diet higher in unsaturated fats such as those in avocados, olive oil and nuts improved insulin use significantly more than a diet high in carbohydrates, and particularly refined carbs like white bread and pasta. Importantly, dietary changes improved insulin effectiveness and reduced cardiovascular risk without weight loss.