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A major British newspaper has claimed a vegan diet can slash cholesterol levels.
The Express Newspaper has dubbed veganism as a ‘trendy diet’ that can reduce the risk of stroke as well as lower cholesterol levels.
Based on a study published in the Nutrition Reviews journal, the newspaper linked an omnivorous diet with higher chances of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease – due to high blood cholesterol levels.
According to the report in the Express: “Cholesterol is a fatty substance known as a lipid, and is vital for the normal functioning of the body.
“While high levels of “good” HDL cholesterol are beneficial, too much bad LDL cholesterol can lead to heart disease.”
Well-documented
The researches believe that those eating a vegan diet have lower body weight, a reduced intake of saturated fat, and an increased intake of plant foods which are naturally rich in components such as soluble fiber, soy protein, and plant sterols – potentially making them stroke-safe.
“The immediate health benefits of a plant-based diet, like weight loss, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol, are well-documented in controlled studies,” said study author Susan Levin.
“We hope to empower patients with new research about the long-term cardiovascular health benefits of a vegetarian diet, which include a reduced risk of a heart attack, stroke, and premature death.”
Dietary changes
The authors of the study recommend doctors to encourage people to try a plant-based diet.
“As a dietitian, my take-home message is to encourage anyone to start making dietary changes early on in his or her life.
“It’s easier to maintain optimal health than it is to change your diet at age 60 or 75, although, to be clear, it’s never to late to make healthful lifestyle changes,” concluded Levin.
READ MORE:
Veganism Could Save Lives, Money And The Planet, Says New Study
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