Macro partitioning

Adherence to the Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), which emphasizes unsaturated fats, whole grains, and moderate alcohol while limiting red/processed meats and trans fats, significantly reduces the risk of major chronic disease and cardiovascular disease in adults compared to low adherence.

To lower your risk of heart disease and chronic illness, focus on the quality of your food choices rather than just calories. Prioritize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, and poultry over red and processed meats. Use unsaturated oils (like olive or canola oil) instead of butter or animal fats. If you drink alcohol, limit it to moderate levels (1-2 drinks for men, 1 for women). This pattern, known as the Alternate Healthy Eating Index, has been shown to significantly reduce cardiovascular risk in large population studies.