Who has never dreamed of combining pleasure, well-being and health? The latest discovery by a team of South Korean researchers could please many foodies. They suggest that kimchi, a great classic of Korean cuisine, would be beneficial in combating the risk of obesity in men, and bloated bellies in men and women. Something to delight fans of Asian cuisine.
From the classic burger to pizza and raclette (it’s still in season!), there are many traditional dishes that are recommended to be enjoyed in moderation, if only because they are particularly rich in calories. But certain dishes, just as tasty, could on the contrary allow you to combine nutrition, health and pleasure. Yes it’s possible ! In any case, this is what South Korean researchers discovered with kimchi, a traditional dish from the country of K-pop which is based, as its name suggests, on fermented vegetables – generally cabbage and radish. This dish that gourmets love could help fight weight gain.
Based on previous studies, which showed that two bacteria found in kimchi, Lactobacillus brevis et L. plants, could have an anti-obesity effect, the researchers wanted to look at the effects of regular consumption of kimchi on the risk of overall obesity. To do this, they analyzed data from 115,726 people aged 51 on average, from a large Korean genome and epidemiology survey. In particular, participants were asked about the frequency of consumption of certain foods, including kimchi (cabbage, radish, cabbage and radish, mustard greens), namely never, rarely or up to three times a day.
Less risk of being obese
This culinary experience was completed by measuring the height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) of the participants. Scientists specify that a BMI of 18.5 is characterized as underweight, between 18.5 and 25 as normal weight, and above 25 as obesity, while abdominal obesity is associated with waist circumference. at least 90 centimeters for men and at least 85 centimeters for women. Published in the journal BMJ Open, the findings suggest that regular consumption of kimchi, up to three servings per day, is associated with a lower risk of obesity in men. According to their conclusions, radish kimchi would reduce the risk of belly swelling in both sexes.
NO to diets, YES to WW!
Be careful, however, to avoid excess!
Be careful, however, the scientists specify that they have obtained a J-shaped curve, namely a curve which goes down at the beginning then rises gradually until reaching a point higher than the starting point. Something that could be linked, according to their findings, to the fact that high consumption of kimchi also translates into higher intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and salt. As a result, participants who consumed five or more servings of this Korean dish daily had a larger waistline and were more likely to be obese.
“Since all results observe a J-shaped association, excessive consumption suggests a potential increase in the prevalence of obesity. And since kimchi is one of the main sources of sodium intake, a moderate amount should be recommended for the health benefits of its other components“, conclude the researchers in a press release.
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