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

Gurusha Jangid, Helen A O Popoola-Samuel, Kausalya Goda, F N U Anamika, Vasu Gupta, Sai Gautham Kanagala, Ripudaman Singh Munjal

Journal: Cardiology in review 2025;33(3):265-268

PMID: 37768098

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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.

Address: From Internal Medicine Department, Dr. Sampurnananda Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.; Internal Medicine Department, College of Health and Sciences, Rush University, IL.; Internal Medicine Department, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Tamil Nadu, India.; Internal Medicine Department, University College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.; Internal Medicine Department, Cleveland Clinic, Akron General, Akron, OH.; Internal Medicine Department, NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan, NY.; Internal Medicine Department, Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine, CA.

DOI: 10.1097/CRD.0000000000000613

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MeSH Terms: Humans, Cardiovascular Diseases, Diet, Vegetarian, Cardiovascular System, Diet, Plant-Based