Unhealthy Plant-Based Diets Linked to Heart Damage: Study
The benefits of a plant-based diet for heart health are well-established. Plant-based diets have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality. However, a new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology suggests that not all plant-based diets are created equal. In fact, diets high in refined grains, sugary snacks, and processed plant foods may actually be linked to higher levels of cardiac troponin, a marker of heart damage.
The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, analyzed the dietary habits and cardiovascular health of over 1,000 adults without diagnosed heart disease. The researchers used a food frequency questionnaire to assess the participants’ diets, and then measured their levels of cardiac troponin, a protein that is released into the blood when the heart is damaged.
The results were striking. The researchers found that participants who consumed a diet high in refined grains, sugary snacks, and processed plant foods had higher levels of cardiac troponin than those who followed a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. In fact, for every 10% increase in the proportion of refined grains in the diet, cardiac troponin levels increased by 12%.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Mahshid Dehghan, noted that the findings suggest that the quality of a plant-based diet is just as important as the quantity of plant-based foods consumed. “Just because a diet is plant-based doesn’t mean it’s automatically healthy,” Dr. Dehghan said. “We need to focus on the quality of the plant-based foods we’re consuming, rather than just checking the plant-based label.”
The researchers also found that participants who consumed higher amounts of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium had higher levels of cardiac troponin. These findings are consistent with previous research, which has shown that diets high in added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease.
So, what does this mean for people who are looking to adopt a plant-based diet for heart health? The study’s findings suggest that it’s not just about cutting out animal products, but also about focusing on whole, minimally processed foods. Here are some tips for creating a heart-healthy plant-based diet:
- Focus on whole grains: Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread instead of refined grains like white rice and white bread.
- Load up on fruits and vegetables: Aim for a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet, and try to include a serving of leafy greens like spinach and kale in your meals.
- Choose healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil are all great sources of healthy fats.
- Limit added sugars: Try to limit your intake of added sugars, and opt for natural sources of sweetness like fruit instead.
- Be mindful of sodium: Choose low-sodium options, and season your food with herbs and spices instead of salt.
In conclusion, the study’s findings suggest that not all plant-based diets are created equal. While a plant-based diet can be an effective way to reduce the risk of heart disease, it’s important to focus on whole, minimally processed foods and to limit the intake of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. By making a few simple changes to your diet, you can create a heart-healthy plant-based diet that supports your overall health and well-being.
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/can-a-plant-based-diet-help-your-heart
