Plant-Based Diets for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: All Plant Foods Are Not Created Equal

Year Published: 2019

Journal

Authors

Hemler EC, Hu FB

Methods

This review examined the use of plant-based diets for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Key Findings

Key Findings: The review found a wide variety of plant-based diets. "In these studies, plant-based diets containing higher amounts of healthy foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, oils, tea, and coffee are associated with lower CVD risk. However, plant-based diets including higher amounts of less healthy plant foods, such as refined grains, potatoes/fries, and foods and beverages high in added sugar, are linked to increased risk." Authors conclude that a distinction must be made between healthy and unhealthy plant-based diets.