Exploring Plant-Based Innovations: Leading the Shift Toward Conscious Nutrition in the Middle East
Plant-based proteins are becoming an increasingly popular option for those prioritizing conscious choices. With concerns over diet-related health issues on the rise, it’s essential to consider what we consume, restrict, and how physically active we are. In the GCC region, 32% of the population is affected by heart disease, while 40% struggle with being overweight—issues largely linked to excessive consumption of red and white meats, which are high in calories, unhealthy fats, cholesterol, and trans fats.
Understanding Emiratis' Willingness to Replace Meat with Alternative Proteins
Replacing animal protein with alternative sources is gaining popularity for creating sustainable food systems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Understanding consumers' views on alternative proteins in the UAE is crucial for widespread adoption. This study investigates the influence of dietary habits, objective knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on the willingness to replace meat with alternatives among Emiratis in the UAE. Further, the factors that drive this willingness are explored.
Ancient Carbs: Findings from Gesher Benot Ya’aqov on the Jordan River Challenge Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet, known for its emphasis on lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, has long been promoted as a way to eat like our prehistoric ancestors. However, a recent study from the Gesher Benot Ya’aqov site in the Middle East suggests that this diet might not accurately represent ancient eating habits. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study supports the idea that ancient humans relied heavily on plant-based foods.
How Plant-Based Foods Influence Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Risk in Saudi Adults
A recent study has provided compelling evidence linking dietary patterns to the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) among adults in Saudi Arabia. By analyzing the diet patterns of participants and calculating their GERD risk using the GerdQ questionnaire, researchers have identified significant correlations between plant-based foods and the prevention of GERD.
Foodborne Disease Trends in Lebanon: ground raw meat and cooked chicken were the leading suspects
A study conducted in Lebanon revealed that ground raw meat and cooked chicken were the leading suspects in foodborne disease cases. From 2009 to 2013, a total of 1747 cases, including four fatalities, were reported to the Ministry of Public Health.
Exploring the Surge of Vegan Dietary and Lifestyle Adoption in Saudi Arabia: Motivations, Implications, and Prospects
Saudi Arabia has a deeply ingrained cultural tradition of offering meat dishes to guests, and a meat-based diet is the norm in the country. Therefore, the rise of vegan dietary and lifestyle adoption in Saudi Arabia is surprising and deserves attention.