Dangerous Plant-Based Diet Could Boost Heart Attack Risk by a Steep 65%
Going plant-based doesn't guarantee improved heart health, evidenced by a recent study that showed an unhealthy plant-based diet can lead to increased chances of heart issues. These diets often involve processed foods like meat substitutes packed with sodium and additives, which might wreak havoc on your heart.
The study, conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, focused on three key cardiac biomarkers linked to heart disease. Interestingly, it was found that sticking to a healthy plant-based diet can lower the likelihood of having elevated levels of cardiac troponin I by 49%. However, individuals following an unhealthy plant-based diet had a 65% greater chance of increased cardiac troponin I levels.
To clarify, Michelle Routhenstein, a registered dietitian specializing in heart disease, highlighted that plant-based foods don't automatically equal healthy eating. While many plant-based diets can reduce cardiovascular risk due to their nutritional profile, not all of them provide these health benefits. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist at Hello Heart, echoed this sentiment, stating that plant-based meat substitutes are oftentimes high in sodium, additives, and saturated fats from coconut oil.
Moreover, it's the level of processing that makes all the difference when it comes to heart health. Cardiologist Jayne Morgan cautioned that highly processed foods can be detrimental to heart health, regardless of their plant or animal origin.
Adopting a healthy plant-based diet? Go for foods that are low in saturated fat and sodium, with minimal additives and preservatives. Good options include beans, legumes, tofu, and tempeh. Avoiding processed foods? Look for unsalted or lightly salted options, as well as recognizable whole foods. As Routhenstein put it, fiber—found in lentils, chickpeas, and black beans—helps lower cholesterol and should be incorporated into your meals. Opt for healthier oils like olive, avocado, or canola, and steer clear of coconut or palm oils, saturated fats, sodium, and additives.
The message? Prioritize quality and avoid heavily processed plant-based foods to reap heart health benefits. Opt for whole, minimally processed plant-based foods instead.
- A recent study by Johns Hopkins University revealed that an unhealthy plant-based diet can escalate heart issues, contrary to popular belief.
- The study found that a healthy plant-based diet can decrease the risk of having elevated cardiac troponin I levels by 49%.
- However, an unhealthy plant-based diet can increase cardiac troponin I levels by 65%.
- Michelle Routhenstein, a heart disease dietitian, emphasized that not all plant-based foods are healthy, despite their presumed benefits.
- Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist, warned that highly processed foods, including those of plant origin, can harm heart health.
- To maintain heart health, adopt a diet rich in foods low in saturated fat and sodium, such as beans, legumes, tofu, and tempeh.
- Processed foods should be avoided, especially those high in additives, saturated fats, sodium, and unhealthy oils like coconut or palm oil.
- Consuming fiber-rich foods like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans can help lower cholesterol and is recommended for heart health.
- Opt for healthier oils, such as olive, avocado, or canola, and choose whole, minimally processed plant-based foods to promote cardiovascular health and overall health-and-wellness lifestyle.
