In the study, participants eating a healthy Nordic-style diet, which emphasizes locally sourced foods and is rich in high-fiber whole grains, vegetables, root vegetables, berries, low-fat dairy, rapeseed (canola) oil, and three weekly servings of fish, had a reduced expression of genes that trigger inflammation after 24 weeks compared to a control group consuming lower-fiber grains and less fish. Both groups maintained the same weight, though, suggesting that anti-inflammatory benefits of the diet aren’t simply a result of weight loss, but rather, certain beneficial nutrients. Because researchers looked at the effects of the diet as a whole—as opposed to each nutritional component—they couldn’t identify specific foods responsible for the benefit, at least not with certainty. They did speculate, however, that polyphenol antioxidants and healthy fatty acids (found in foods like berries and fatty fish, respectively) are likely responsible. So what do you say, want to give this Nordic thing a go? If you need more convincing, check out this article covering all of the diet’s proven health and weight loss perks. Next, figure out how to stock a Nordic pantry, and try these 10 seriously-satisfying Nordic recipes.
