By George Citroner
For years, the Mediterranean diet has hogged the healthy-eating spotlight, emphasizing fresh produce, fish, and olive oil.
But new research is spotlighting a lesser-known but potentially equally beneficial diet with a surprise allowance for more red meat: the Atlantic diet. Emerging research suggests it can also reduce your risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Atlantic vs. Mediterranean Diet
While similar to the often-recommended DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets, the Atlantic diet specifically draws inspiration from the traditional foods and preparations of the Iberian region. Also called the Southern European Atlantic Diet (SEAD), it originates from the traditional cuisines of northern Portugal and northwestern Spain.
The key difference between the Atlantic and Mediterranean diets is which foods are emphasized. Both focus on whole, fresh foods; however, the Mediterranean diet includes more grains and fewer meat and animal products.
Following the Atlantic diet has been associated with decreased risk of heart disease, some cancers, and even increased life expectancy, Sarah Coupal, a registered dietician at Staten Island University Hospital in New York, told The Epoch Times.
The Atlantic Diet includes a wide range of fresh, minimally processed foods, such as:
- Vegetables, fruits, cereals, whole grains, potatoes, nuts, and legumes
- Various seafood
- Dairy products
- Red meat, poultry, and wild game
- Olive oil
- Wine
Dishes are prepared simply, relying mainly on baking, boiling, stewing, or grilling.
Atlantic Diet Lowers Metabolic Syndrome Risk by 42 Percent
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It is characterized by at least three of the following: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low “good” cholesterol.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open investigated whether the Atlantic diet could influence metabolic syndrome. Of 574 participants aged 18 to 85, those following the Atlantic diet had a 42 percent lower risk of developing additional MetS factors than the control group. They also experienced a “significant decrease” in waist circumference.
Another recent study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology looked at 35,917 people aged 18 to 96 in Spain, Poland, Czechia, and the United Kingdom. Atlantic diet followers experienced lower 13.6-year all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality.
Why It Works
Two key benefits of the Atlantic diet are that it does not restrict calories or eliminate food groups, “which indicates that it can be sustainable long-term,” Ms. Coupal said.
Other unique aspects of this traditional diet may also contribute to its health effects. Its focus on local, seasonal ingredients means foods are often higher in micronutrients and lower in pesticides. “Focusing on seasonal foods can help you get all the vitamins and minerals you need from a variety of different foods,” she added.
Additionally, the social aspect is important. Traditionally, families would eat together at mealtimes. Sharing meals can safeguard against disordered eating and fosters strong social bonds, Ms. Coupal noted. “Having a strong social network can be beneficial for both physical and mental health,” she said.
Red Meat Can Be Healthy, but Where You Buy It Matters
Courtney Coe, a registered dietitian nutritionist at WellTheory, which provides evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle coaching to reduce autoimmune symptoms, said she wasn’t surprised that a diet with more red meat than the Mediterranean diet was still healthy.
“People have enjoyed red meat all throughout history,” she noted. “Red meats contain important vitamins and minerals and are a great source of protein.”
This way of eating has been shown to support a healthy gut microbiome and cardiovascular health while reducing insulin resistance and even boosting mental health, according to Ms. Coe.
It’s rare for whole, natural foods to cause health issues when consumed as part of a balanced diet, she said. But with red meat, quality is key.
“Processed red meat is much different than unprocessed versions,” Ms. Coe added. She recommends seeking out organic, grass-fed red meat options whenever possible.
“We have been taught to fear red meat,” Ms. Coe said. “But this diet (the Atlantic diet) captures how these foods actually have amazing health benefits when eaten in an unprocessed form.”
