From French to Mediterranean Diet: Importance of the Omega-6/Omega-3 Fatty Acids Ratio

Changes in serum omega fatty acids on a Mediterranean diet intervention in patients with gingivitis: An exploratory study

“…As described in our main study, 6 the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener as a validated 14 questions screening instrument to assess the adherence to the Mediterranean diet; moreover, the score showed inverse correlations to clinical parameters of several diseases including oral inflammatory parameters. Compared to the Western diet, the food composition of the MedD 30 is characterized by a lower omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio 19,25,34,35 . As the serum omega‐3 PUFA levels did not change in our study, the beneficial effect on the ratio was mainly caused by the change in omega‐6 PUFA levels.…”

“…Both paleo‐style diets 23,24 and the Mediterranean diet MedD 25 ; are associated with a more balanced omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio compared to Western style diets. To date, there is little evidence regarding the role of serum omega‐PUFA levels and their effect on gingival inflammation in the presence of plaque; thus, the role of fatty acids in this context remains unclear 9,26 .…”

“…However, a moderate LA intake-especially when substituting for saturated fatty acids-has been reported to have beneficial effects. 21 Both paleo-style diets 23,24 and the Mediterranean diet MedD 25 ;…”

Effects of Unbalanced Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake on Obesity-related Metabolic and Hepatic Dysfunctions

“…The excessive ω-6 fatty acid intake would increase the levels of ω-6-derived eicosanoids, that are potent mediators of thrombosis and inflammation, than ω-3-derived eicosapentaenoic acid. The unbalanced ω-6/ ω-3 ratio would suggest the close relationship with progressive liver disease from steatosis towards inflammation and fibrosis [18][19][20].…”

Could cheese be the missing piece in the French paradox puzzle?

“…However, besides red wine and its major constituent resveratrol, which seem to confer cardioprotective effects on wine drinkers [4], multiple other factors seem to be implemented in the French paradox. These include smaller portion size, lower number of eating occasions, regular gardening and exercise and higher intake of fruit and vegetables rich in flavonoids, phytosterols and dietary fiber [5][6][7][8]. Although a single causative factor explaining the occurrence of ''French paradox'' is unlikely ever to be found, the identification of contributory factors to reduced cardiovascular mortality in France would seem to be extremely important.…”