The epidemic of obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS), and type 2 diabetes (DM), both in adults and children, has its roots in reduced physical activity and a diet rich in simple carbohydrates, dairy and meat saturated fats of animal origin, along with insufficient intake of fruits, vegetables, and grains. MS is characterized by abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hypertension, hyperlipoproteinemia, and the risk of atherosclerosis and vascular complications, emphasizing the importance of prevention. Introducing a balanced Mediterranean diet, rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fibers, monounsaturated and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and low in saturated fats of animal origin, leads to positive effects in patients with MS and/or increased risk of it.
Key components of this diet, such as monounsaturated fatty acids from olive oil, omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibers from fruits, vegetables, and legumes, have favorable effects on blood pressure regulation, reduction of cholesterol levels, and improvement of insulin sensitivity. Additionally, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are rich in antioxidants, potassium, folic acid, and soluble fibers, contributing to reducing the risk of MS complications.
Furthermore, applying the principles of Christian fasting can benefit in reducing stress and tension, which positively affects the secretion of stress hormones, further reducing the risk of autoimmune and malignant diseases. Plant bioactive ingredients are also important as an addition to diabetes therapy, as they can stimulate insulin secretion and increase insulin sensitivity.
In practice, the implementation of these principles has shown positive effects, such as normalization of glucose levels in most patients, weight reduction, and decreased use of oral hypoglycemic drugs or insulin.
Through a series of lectures by eminent experts, the latest therapeutic approaches and findings in the field of diabetes treatment will be presented, including the use of natural supplements. The focus will be on the development of new classes of antidiabetic drugs and principles of regenerative medicine, aiming to improve therapy and find pathways towards the ultimate cure for patients.
