Vegetarians: less risk of diabetes and heart problems

by S. C.

Kerry Grens of Reuters reports that a new study conducted by researchers at Loma Linda University Medical School suggests that vegetarians are at less risk of diabetes and heart problems. Metabolic syndrome—a combination of increased blood fats, blood sugar, blood pressure, waist size, and body mass—is the primary cause of diabetes and heart problems in adults. Researchers compiled data from various surveys of vegetarians, non-vegetarians, and semi-vegetarians. The results stated that out of 100 vegetarians, only 23 showed signs of metabolic syndrome compared with 39 out of 100 in non-vegetarians. 37 out of 100 semi-vegetarians were found to have metabolic syndrome as well.

Researchers also conducted questionnaires of about 700 people to gain insight into vegetarian and non-vegetarian eating habits. They measured the blood fats, blood sugar, blood pressure, waist size, and body mass of those they surveyed, concluding that vegetarians have lower levels than non-vegetarians across the board. The average BMI (Body Mass Index) level for vegetarians was 25.7%, four points lower than non-vegetarians with an average of 30%. These findings suggest to researchers that there is a correlation between vegetarianism and the factors that contribute to metabolic syndrome. Lower rates of metabolic syndrome among vegetarians mean less of them are likely to develop diabetes and heart problems later in life.

by S. C.
16 April 2011 Teatro Naturale International n. 4 Year 3

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