Lent is a difficult fast for Greeks who show a great love for meat and fish, but IELKA research shows that a relatively large proportion of them observe it.
Lent begins today, and is accompanied by Great Lent, which ends on Easter Sunday, according to the Orthodox tradition.
According to experts, fasting has multiple benefits for the human body, but it also hides risks if it is not done carefully and with appropriate nutritional coverage of all the elements necessary for our health.
According to the nutritionist Paulina Gianniotis Fasting helps a lot to protect the heart, as well Cholesterol It can even go as low as 40 to 50 milligrams, which is very important especially in Greece where rates of cardiovascular disease are high.
As for her Possibility of weight gainAs the expert confirms, it is clearly present if a balanced diet is not followed. After all, there are many days of fasting, so care must be taken to provide the body with the necessary nutrients it needs, and to eat foods and sources of protein, which it lacks due to the absence of animal products from the diet of those who fast. They fast.
the protein It can be replenished through soy products, which are rich in calcium in addition to protein, through legumes, seafood, produce, mushrooms and other foods.
Excludes Physical health But fasting also seems to favor it Psychological health, Because it affects our mood, while in several cases greater clarity and lower levels of fatigue and anxiety have been observed in people who fast and follow a balanced diet.
What research shows about eating habits while fasting
In his search Ilka It turns out that 1 in 2 consumers fast during Holy Week and 1 in 8 throughout Lent, with 1 in 2 believing that fasting is good for their health.
the research, Conducted from 2 to 8 March 2024 with a sample of 800 consumers from all over Greece, it is of particular interest regarding eating and purchasing habits.
As it turns out, the Greeks fast Holy weekThis is a fairly large percentage, but it decreased compared to previous years, as 33% of the sample members who declared that they fast said that they like to do so, while 55% considered it to be so. Good for his health18% believe that it contributes to increasing body weight, while 14% have a different opinion, as they believe that by fasting you can lose weight.
the 34% Of the public considers that their diet during the specified fasting period costs more Spend more money More than usual, while 27% find it difficult to find what to eat, and 22% feel stressed about their diet.
During the fasting period there is also an increase in food intake delivery For 7% of participants while 20% consume plant-based food alternatives. Most people find it difficult to fast oil And Dairy products, As well as sweets, while it is easier to fast on meat and fish.
During the fasting period, foods that are frequently eaten are: the fruit And vegetables, Almost daily, followed by nuts, pasta and oils, about twice a week.
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