Walnuts key to the Mediterranean diet?

Walnuts, rich in the omega-3 ALA, may be more important than olive oil in protecting arteries and heart health in the traditional Mediterranean diet, suggest researchers in Barcelona.

The study with 24 people compared the effects of adding either walnuts or olive oil to a fatty meal. While markers of oxidative stress decreased in similar quantities following both meals, markers of blood vessel function were significantly better following the walnut meal.

The traditional Mediterranean diet, associated with decreased risk of heart disease, is high in whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts, fish and olive oil.

Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology, published online 25 September 2006