Plant-Based Diet Quality is Important for Cardiovascular Health
A leading cause of
death and disability in the world is cardiovascular
disease (CVD). Food has a vital influence on the
development and management of cardiovascular
disease. And reducing the consumption of animal
products has been shown to have a positive impact on
cardiovascular health. However, simply
reducing meat intake is not enough. A focus on
overall diet quality, including the consumption of a
variety of plant-based foods, is essential for
reducing cardiovascular risk.
Studies have consistently shown that a diet high in
animal products, particularly red and processed
meat, is associated
with an increased risk of CVD. Animal products
are high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which
have been
linked to an increased risk of CVD.
A diet filled with plant-based foods, like fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, has
been shown to have a protective effect on
cardiovascular health. These foods are high
in fiber, antioxidants, and unsaturated fats,
and have been linked to improved blood pressure and
lipid profiles which can reduce the risk of CVD.
Indeed, individuals should select
plant-based foods that are close to natural.
The foods should be whole foods. These are foods
that have received very little processing or
refining. Whole foods typically contain no additives
or artificial ingredients. Although individuals can
select from animal products infrequently in
moderation, individuals should abstain from eating
fried foods such as fried poultry and fried fish.
Also, when animal products such as low-fat dairy and
eggs are consumed, these products should be eaten
infrequently and in moderation.
Healthcare providers should discuss the importance
of diet quality with their patients when discussion
cardiovascular health. This is especially true for
patients considering a plant-based diet. Patients
should be warned not to assume that all plant-based
diets will improve cardiovascular health, just
because there is an absence of meat. The patients
should be warned to avoid non-meat foods that have
been processed or contain additives or artificial
ingredients.
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