Israeli paradox

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Israeli paradox is a term used to describe the phenomenon where despite a high consumption of dietary fat, the population of Israel has a low prevalence of cardiovascular disease and obesity. This paradox is similar to the French paradox and the Mediterranean paradox, which also involve populations with high fat intake but low rates of cardiovascular disease and obesity.

Dietary habits in Israel[edit | edit source]

The Israeli diet is rich in polyunsaturated fats, particularly omega-6 fatty acids, which are found in high amounts in sunflower oil, soybean oil, and corn oil. These oils are commonly used in Israeli cuisine. Despite the high consumption of these fats, the rates of cardiovascular disease and obesity in Israel are lower than in many other developed countries.

Possible explanations for the Israeli paradox[edit | edit source]

Several theories have been proposed to explain the Israeli paradox. One theory is that the high intake of polyunsaturated fats in the Israeli diet may have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease and obesity. Another theory is that other factors, such as physical activity levels and genetic factors, may play a role in the low rates of these diseases in Israel.

Research on the Israeli paradox[edit | edit source]

Research on the Israeli paradox is ongoing. Some studies have suggested that the high intake of omega-6 fatty acids in the Israeli diet may be associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. However, other studies have found no such association. More research is needed to fully understand the Israeli paradox and its implications for dietary guidelines and public health.

See also[edit | edit source]

Israeli paradox Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD