Benefits Of Plant-Based Diet And Risk Of Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to explore whether or not a high intake of fiber from a plant-based diet has a beneficial effect on the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the number one leading cause of death in the United States, and the prevalence continues to increase. Interventions need to be pursued in order to prevent an individual from becoming diagnosed with this life-threatening disease and to treat those already diagnosed. The research that contributed to this review focused on a plant-based diet with an emphasis on fiber intake and how it affected the development and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Databases included the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, PubMed, Medline Plus, and Mayo Clinic. A vegetarian diet can be healthful, nutritionally adequate, and provide benefits that can reduce the risk of certain diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Adequate dietary fiber consumption can lead to many benefits on health. It can reduce the risk of several chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. A diet that is high in animal derived foods lead to large consumption of unhealthy fats and thus can have a negative effect on heart health. Researchers showed evidence suggesting that a plant-based diet can be beneficial while animal-based products are detrimental. It is likely possible that a vegetarian diet high in fiber can be beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.