Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

These are the benefits of the Mediterranean diet

A Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals and fish, could help those with osteoporosis.

According to a study by the University of East Anglia in the UK, a Mediterranean diet could reduce bone loss in people with osteoporosis. The results of the study, which involved more than 1000 people aged between 65 and 79, was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.


“This is a particularly sensitive area for osteoporosis as loss of bone in the femoral neck is often the cause of hip fracture, which is common in elderly people with osteoporosis,” said Susan Fairweather-Tait , a professor at the University of East Anglia.

Bone density was measured at the start and after 12 months. The Mediterranean diet had no discernible impact on participants with normal bone density, but those with osteoporosis saw an improvement.

“Bone takes a long time to form, so the 12-month trial, although one of the longest to date, was still a relatively short time frame to show an impact. So, the fact that we were able to see a marked difference between the groups even in just this one area is significant,” Fairweather-Tait said.

What exactly is the Mediterranean diet?

It is a diet followed in Mediterranean countries characterized by a high consumption of vegetables and olive oil and moderate consumption of protein.  In general, it's high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats.

Here are the other benefits of a Mediterranean diet:

  • Protects against Type 2 diabetes
  • Maintains heart health
  • Reduces risk of developing Alzheimer's disease
  • Reduces risk of developing Parkinson's disease
  • Aids healthy weight loss

More For You

Dr Punam Krishan: ‘My book inspires children to appreciate their bodies’

Dr Punam Krishan

Dr Punam Krishan: ‘My book inspires children to appreciate their bodies’

AN ASIAN doctor said she wants children to feel excited and empowered about their bodies when they read her new book.

Published last month, Dr Punam Krishan’s You & Your Body helps children and families understand the human body and make positive choices about well-being, the author said.

Keep ReadingShow less
Obesity drug
Boxes of Wegovy are seen at a pharmacy in London. (Photo: Reuters)

GPhC tightens rules for online obesity drug prescriptions

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which oversees UK pharmacies, has introduced stricter rules for online pharmacies prescribing obesity drugs. The regulator said the changes aim to prevent individuals from receiving medicines that could pose health risks.

The new guidance, updated for the first time in three years, follows concerns about how some online pharmacies dispense weight-loss drugs.

Keep ReadingShow less
12 tricks to stick to your New Year’s resolutions and achieve your goals

Building habits gradually can lead to sustainable, long-term change

12 tricks to stick to your New Year’s resolutions and achieve your goals

Anjali Mehta

WHETHER it’s eating healthier, exercising more, saving money, or any number of goals, millions of people around the world make ambitious New Year’s resolutions.

Yet, by February, most of these well-intentioned plans are abandoned. If that sounds familiar, don’t worry – remember that it’s never too late to turn things around or set new goals.

Keep ReadingShow less
Getting set for a fitness journey

Bijan Azarmi

Getting set for a fitness journey

Bijan Azarmi

THE pressure to get fitter often discourages people from starting or causes them to give up soon after beginning. However, there are simple steps that can help navigate this challenging path toward better health through exercise.

With that in mind, Eastern Eye asked London-based fitness expert and personal trainer Bijan Azarmi to share his top tips for starting a physical health journey and staying motivated.

Keep ReadingShow less
Helpful hints for sticking with new year health goals

Build strength and confidence with consistent effort and support

Helpful hints for sticking with new year health goals

Jayeeta Dutta and Nesreen G

MANY adults aim to achieve a fitter version of themselves by the end of each year, yet studies show that almost two-thirds abandon their resolutions within the first month.

Sticking to a fitness routine can be challenging, especially for beginners, as distractions, easy alternatives, and daily life often get in the way.

Keep ReadingShow less