Diabetes Health in The News: Study Indicates Only Certain Fruits, Vegetables, and Grains Protect Against Heart Disease

A new study done by health professionals has determined that they believe that eating fruits, vegetables, and grains would protect against heart disease is only partially correct. Eating the wrong foods, even those that are believed to be healthy, may not actually lower the risk of heart disease. Foods that are heavy in potatoes, breads, and pastas may actually increase the risk of heart disease more than eating foods that are high in animal products.

This study did not specifically look at vegan or vegetarian diets, though previous studies have indicated that these diets may lead to lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other issues. What the study did highlight was that there are correct ways of eating a plant-based diet. Not all fruits, vegetables, and grains are as healthy as others, suggesting that individuals need to carefully consider what they’re eating even when vegetarian or vegan.

The study examined information gathered from three different studies that have been obtaining data since the 1980s. The information includes data from more than 200,000 individuals, including more than 8,600 who died from heart disease or heart attack.

These findings were published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology on July 25, 2017.