Study shows that plant-based diets reduce cancer and heart disease risks

In a recent study in PLOS ONE, researchers conducted an umbrella review to assess plant-based diets' impact on cancer, cardiometabolic diseases, and mortality.

Background:

Diet significantly affects cancer and cardiovascular disease risks. Unhealthy diets increase mortality and disability-adjusted life years. Vegan or vegetarian diets are recommended for metabolic diseases and ethical and environmental concerns.

Study Overview:

The umbrella review analyzed studies on plant-based diets' effects without excluding based on participant characteristics.

Findings:

Plant-based diets improved glycemic control, lipid profiles, BMI, and reduced inflammation, cancer, and heart disease risks. They lowered LDL and total cholesterol, HbA1C, and fasting blood glucose. Effects on triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and blood pressure are uncertain. Followers often adopt other healthy habits, aiding disease risk reduction.

Conclusions:

While offering health benefits, caution is advised due to study heterogeneity. Despite limitations, plant-based diets lower cancer, cardiometabolic, and cardiovascular disease risks, highlighting the need for informed recommendations.