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How a Plant-Based Diet Can Improve Your Cardiovascular Health

By Team Adesso | Posted Oct 8, 2024

Many studies have shown that adopting a plant-based diet can greatly reduce the risk of developing heart diseases and can also reverse some of the damage already done to the heart. 

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Heart disease remains the number one cause of death globally. By adopting a plant-based diet, you are greatly reducing your risk of developing heart disease. That’s because plant-based diets are low in saturated fats, high in nutrients, and are cholesterol-free. These qualities are all protective of the heart. Furthermore, plant-based diets can help regulate blood pressure and prevent inflammation, which are both major risk factors for heart disease.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

High levels of cholesterol are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Consuming animal products like meat, cheese, and butter can increase your cholesterol levels. Switching to a plant-based diet can significantly decrease your cholesterol levels. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a plant-based diet can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 35 percent.

Boost Heart Health

Polyphenols found in plant-based diets are rich in antioxidants and can help to reduce stress on the heart. They also improve circulation and prevent damage to the blood vessels, which further supports cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that people who consume plant-based diets are at a lower risk of developing hypertension or high blood pressure, which also contributes to a stronger heart.

Reduce Inflammation in the Body

A plant-based diet has been shown to significantly reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammatory processes contribute to the formation of plaques on the walls of arteries, which leads to heart disease. Plant-based diets are high in anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, plant-based diets can help improve the functioning of the inner lining of the blood vessels, which is important for overall cardiovascular health.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the risk of developing heart disease. Consuming a plant-based diet can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Plant-based diets are low in calories and high in fiber, helping to keep you full for longer periods of time while reducing calorie intake. This means you’re less likely to consume unhealthy snacks or foods that could harm your cardiovascular health.

Adopting a plant-based diet can help reduce inflammation in the body, lower cholesterol levels, boost heart health, and aid in weight management. Take a step towards better health by including more plant-based foods in your diet. If making the switch from meat lover to vegetarian all at once is too much, adding in one or two new foods a week will help you make strides toward a plant-based diet.