Update on Plant-Based Diets and Cardiometabolic Risk

The number of published studies on the health effects of plant-based diets has increased dramatically in the last decade. The purpose of this narrative review is to update the most recent evidence from large prospective cohort studies and meta-analyses on the effects of plant-based dietary patterns on cardiovascular outcomes and risk factors and total mortality.

Most new data from large prospective cohort studies carried out in the USA, Europe, and Asia continue to show inverse associations between plant-based diets and the incidence of ischemic heart disease and stroke, while less data exist for heart failure incidence. New analyses suggest that only some components of plant-based diets are associated with cardiovascular benefit. Recent meta-analyses show inverse associations between plant-protein intake and all-cause mortality, although heterogeneity exists, and small mortality risks from some animal proteins, notably processed meats. New studies continue to demonstrate small but favorable effects of plant-based diets on traditional risk factors and suggest other emerging mechanisms by which plant-based diets exert cardiovascular benefits. The recommendation to consume a plant-based diet to reduce cardiovascular risk remains an evidence-based strategy based on observational studies. New data highlight the importance of ensuring that these diets are nutrient-rich and low in plant foods associated with signals of harm. For this reason, assessment of diet quality is important even in patients who report adherence to plant-based diets. Large randomized trials with hard cardiovascular endpoints might strengthen this evidence-base, but feasibility is limited.