Influence of Plant-Based Diet on the Cardiovascular System: A Narrative Review.

Authors :: Jangid G
Popoola-Samuel HAO
Goda K
Anamika FNU
Gupta V
Kanagala SG
Munjal RS
Source :: Cardiology in review [Cardiol Rev] 2023 Sep 28. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Sep 28.
Publication Year :: 2023
Publisher :: Ahead of Print
Abstract: A plant-based diet (PBD) includes multiple dietary patterns such as vegetarianism, veganism, lacto-ovo-vegetarianism, etc. A well-balanced PBD has positive effects on body mass index, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes, and it is associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Due to its high fiber content, which lowers levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high antioxidant content, which prevents capillary wall damage; the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have an anti-inflammatory effect, improvement in glucose homeostasis through improved insulin sensitivity, and impact on the gut microbiota, it has been proven to be beneficial for the heart. Despite their possible benefits, PBDs can be low in essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, vitamin D, iodine, and amino acids. This review aims to analyze the influence of PBDs on the cardiovascular system and associated disease progression.<br />Competing Interests: Disclosure: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.<br /> (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)