Harvard’s Healthy Dish Model Promoted at INRCA Ancona for World Diabetes Day
ANCONA, Italy – A focus on increased vegetable intake, whole grains, and lean proteins – fish, white meats, legumes, and eggs – was the core message of harvard’s Healthy Dish model, presented at the INRCA (National research Institute on Aging) in Ancona on Friday, november 14th. The presentation was part of an initiative promoted by the UOC (Operational Unit) of Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases, coinciding with World Diabetes day. The event aimed to raise awareness about diabetes prevention, proper nutrition, and the importance of addressing a condition that remains a significant public health concern.
The meeting demonstrated, through practical examples, how informed food choices can improve quality of life, particularly for individuals with metabolic disorders or those predisposed to developing them. A follow-up conference dedicated to “diabetic foot” – a serious complication of the disease – was held, organized in collaboration with patient associations.
adding a unique element to the informative session was pepper, a humanoid robot utilizing artificial intelligence, voice recognition, and sensors.Pepper, alongside dieticians Sonia Rosati and Natascia Giorgini, guided participants through a presentation of building a balanced meal and making healthier food selections.
Elena Tortato, director of the UOC of Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases, highlighted the World diabetes Day theme of workplace well-being. She emphasized the prevalence of rushed, unbalanced meals in professional settings and their negative health consequences. “Focusing on fresh, minimally processed and well-combined foods is an essential investment, especially for the elderly population, where the probability of developing metabolic disorders increases significantly,” she stated. In the Marche region, diabetes prevalence is approximately 5.5%, rising to 21% in older age groups. Even small changes, such as better meal timing and more balanced choices, can significantly impact health and well-being.
Dieticians Rosati and Giorgini detailed the principles of the Healthy Dish, advocating for generous vegetable portions, moderate fruit consumption (one serving at lunch and dinner), and meals completed with whole grains and quality proteins. Water was recommended as the primary beverage, extra virgin olive oil as the main condiment, and sugars, sweets, and salt used sparingly to maintain stable blood sugar levels and promote overall balance.
Anna Rita Bonfigli, Head of the Clinical Trial Office, also presented the European project Jacardi – Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes.This project, involving 21 European countries, aims to reduce the impact of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases through innovative best practices. INRCA is participating with three clinical studies, including a program focused on improving health literacy among peopel with diabetes, and a telemedicine project developed by the Marche Region to enhance disease management and quality of life.
