Researchers from McMaster University and the Hamilton Health Institute have identified a link between insufficient intake of six key foods and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults. These findings were documented in a study released by McMaster University. [Source: McMaster University]
The researchers analyzed data from the global PURE study, which stands out because it includes participants from high-, middle-, and low-income countries, offering a broad view across diverse health environments. [Source: McMaster University]
The analysis found that eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fish, and full-fat dairy products was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. Lean, unprocessed meats also appeared to contribute to reduced CVD risk in the examined populations. [Source: McMaster University]
Experts suggested practical daily targets: two to three servings of fruit, two to three servings of vegetables, one serving of nuts, and two servings of dairy products. They also recommended consuming pulses three to four times weekly and fish two to three times weekly. In addition, affordable substitutes include one serving of raw red meat or poultry and one serving of whole grains each day. [Source: McMaster University]
According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases accounted for about 18 million deaths worldwide in 2019, which represented roughly 32 percent of all global deaths. [Source: World Health Organization]
A nod to traditional knowledge notes that herbs and spices have long been used in various cultures to ease inflammatory symptoms associated with rheumatic conditions, highlighting the broader role of diet and plant-based components in health management. [Source: McMaster University]