209 Virgin Olive Oil Benefits icochemical characteristics, EVOO can withstand temperatures from 180ºC200ºC without denaturalization and thus impregnates food less. This leads to a lower caloric content and better digestibility compared to other oils. As has been previously stated, frying fish, meat, vegetables, or elaborated food (croquettes and fritters) is characteristic of Mediterranean gastronomies. Raw EVOO is also used in salads and vegetables. EVOO is thus associated with salad, vegetable, and fish consumption which promotes higher adherence to the MD pattern. 18.2. Extra virgin olive oil, Mediterranean Diet, and health According to the most recent surveys, less than half the Spanish population has an admissible level following the MD pattern. This diet, which enjoys worldwide recognition, is based on locally produced traditional dishes with low quantities of processed food. It therefore minimises the environmental impact and optimises food micronutrients and bioactive compounds. Moreover, it is currently known that, with the exception of EVOO, nutritional benefits are more associated with healthy dietary patterns (such as the MD) than isolated components (e.g., macro or micronutrients) or specific foods. In the Mediterranean areas, olive oil is highly consumed and implies a 15%- 40% (or more depending on the region) increase in the dietary caloric intake. This concept is contrary to the traditional Anglo-Saxon nutritional objectives which limit fat intake to 20-30% of the total caloric one. In the PREDIMED (Prevention with Mediterranean diet) study, performed in Spain from 2003 to 2011, 7547 individuals at high cardiovascular risk, aged 55 to 80, were randomised into three dietary groups for around five years. Results showed a 30% reduction in cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality in the participants following an MD supplemented with EVOO (50 mL/day, 20% of the total caloric intake) or nuts (30g/day), in comparison with those ingesting a low-fat diet. From PREDIMED data, we currently have a high level of scientific evidence concerning the benefits of the MD on reducing blood pressure, oxidation, inflammation, and insulin resistance; improving the lipid profile; reversing metabolic syndrome; preventing diabetes; and reducing arrythmias, diabetic reti-
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