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Dear Colleagues and Friends,
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
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The Mediterranean diet (MD) is characterized by high consumption of vegetables and olive oil as its main source of fat. Due to the high presence of vegetables, this diet is rich in polyphenols, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties. For these reasons, this healthful dietary pattern has been a cornerstone to the treatment and prevention of various non-communicable diseases. Most recently, it has been the focus of research on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis, as well as for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
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In relation to neurodegenerative disease research, MD has demonstrated great prevention potential and is a suitable aid to the treatment of symptomatic patients. In one of this week's reviews, the neuroprotective properties of the MD mediated through the microbiota were evaluated in relation to AD and PD. The study found 2 bacteria strains that were inversely associated with AD and 3 species for PD. In relation to multiple sclerosis, a cross-sectional study assessed the association of MD adherence and the severity of disease symptoms. Mainly, they found that high consumption of unsaturated fats and low consumption of saturated fats, sweets and red meat are promising factors associated with fewer symptoms or fatigue. Finally, MD has been studied in the treatment of fatty liver disease for its anti-inflammatory effect and for the reduction of plasma lipids and glucose levels. A cross-sectional study in an Iranian cohort found an inverse association of MD with NAFLD in adults, especially in women. In the same line, a review analyzed different diets for the treatment of NAFLD and concluded that MD is the first choice for its treatment based on the available evidence.
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These reports show the necessity to further research dietary patterns, particularly MD, for their potential to aid in the management and prevention of these degenerative diseases.
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