ST. PAUL, Minn., Aug. 25 (UPI) -- Consuming a low-calorie version of a "Mediterranean diet" rich in fruits, whole grains and extra virgin olive oil -- but light on meat -- can help provide a big reduction in the risk for type 2 diabetes, according to a study published Monday.
In fact, when combined with a program of increased physical activity and even a "modest" amount of weight loss, sticking to an "energy-reduced" version of the Mediterranean diet slashed type 2 diabetes risk by 31% over a more typical version, a team of Spanish researchers reported in a new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
It's long been known that the "MedDiet," which by definition not a "low-fat" plan, has a clear effect in reducing various illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, including cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease, and even in preventing some types of cancer.
It is generally defined as a meal plan that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, potatoes, beans, nuts and seeds, with olive oil serving as a primary fat source. Many versions also include low to moderate amounts of "energy dense" foods like dairy products, eggs, fish and white meat, such as poultry.
