I am Megha Suresh, a Research Scientist working in the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS, New Delhi. I have a master’s degree in food and nutrition (M.Sc. Food and Nutrition) from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi. I have over 4 years of experience in various aspects of nutrition and nutritional epidemiology research. I have been involved in the development of dietary assessment tools and nutritional counseling materials for various chronic lifestyle diseases including Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), Type-1 Diabetes, and coronary artery disease (CAD).
Interestingly, as I explored the significance of diet in protecting against cardiovascular disease during my research work, an apparent understanding appeared for a diet that reduces inflammation. Among the diets with the greatest research and experience in reducing inflammation is the Mediterranean diet, which has well-established positive outcomes concerning cardiovascular disease treatment and prevention. The advantages of a diet like that go way beyond cardiovascular wellness. As part of the research, we examined the components of the Mediterranean diet and uncovered similarities and appropriate substitutions in Indian meals to establish an analogous anti-inflammatory menu. For the last two years in a research position, I have been part of a research study, funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Delhi, which aims to develop a customized healthy antioxidant-rich, and anti-inflammatory diet for CAD patients. The project aims to unfold the potential health benefits of the Mediterranean diet (MD) for Cardiac wellness.