The latest study on Diet and Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases in Spain (DRECE) , presented yesterday, reveals that the obesity rate among Spaniards has grown between 17% and 21%, despite the fact that we consume 250 fewer calories than 20 years ago years . This apparent paradox could be explained by some changes in the type of food and by the lack of exercise that sedentary life entails.
The report, prepared by the Institute for Biomedical Studies with the participation of researchers from different hospitals, concludes that, although Spaniards eat something worse than two decades ago, the good habits of the Mediterranean diet continue to protect our cardiovascular health , maintaining the rates of mortality from this cause at much lower levels than in the rest of Europe. Thus, for example, we have one of the highest 'good' cholesterol figures compared to other countries with higher cardiovascular mortality.
Among the negative aspects is the progressive incorporation into our diet of the consumption of packaged juices and soft drinks with high levels of sugar, as well as the abuse of industrial pastries and precooked foods . However, the consumption of olive oil, legumes and vegetables is maintained, and a slight increase in the intake of nuts and fish is detected, both very healthy foods.
