Beat Heart Disease And Diabetes With Simple Diet Change
A new study suggests that people with heart disease, diabetes, or obesity can improve their chances of living longer by following a healthy plant-based diet. The research, set to be presented at the American College of Cardiology meeting, found that a diet rich in healthy plant-based foods can reduce the risk of premature death from all causes, heart disease, and cancer by 17% to 24%.
The study emphasized that while plant-based foods are generally beneficial, not all of them are healthy. Refined grains, potatoes, and sugary drinks, common in many diets, can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes. The study found that diets high in these unhealthy plant-based foods were associated with a 28% to 36% increased risk of premature death.
The research, which analyzed data from nearly 78,000 individuals with obesity, heart disease, or diabetes in the U.S., U.K., and China, highlights the importance of choosing plant-based foods that promote health. A healthy plant-based diet includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, while minimizing the intake of processed foods and animal products.
The findings remained consistent even after adjusting for factors such as age, sex, smoking, physical activity, and nationality. In a related study involving 18,000 U.S. adults, researchers found that drinking healthy beverages like tea, coffee, and low-fat milk was associated with a lower risk of death, while sugary drinks and alcohol had the opposite effect.
Overall, the study stresses the importance of a balanced plant-based diet and choosing healthier food and drink options to improve longevity, particularly for those with chronic health conditions.
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