Plant-Based Diets Can Enhance Cardiovascular Health
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Plant-Based Diets Can Enhance Cardiovascular Health

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Sofía Garduño By Sofía Garduño | Journalist & Industry Analyst - Thu, 05/25/2023 - 11:49

Adopting plant-based diets can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lessening the burden of atherogenic lipoproteins, found a recent meta-analysis of scientific literature. While the benefits are evident, the transition to and maintenance of a healthy plant-based diet can present challenges.

The study, published in the European Heart Journal, highlights that “vegetarian and vegan diets were associated with reduced concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B.” 

The popularity of plant-based diets continues to soar. The estimated global market size for plant-based food reached US$10.24 billion in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is projected to experience substantial growth, with a forecasted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.82% from 2023 to 2029. By 2029, it is anticipated that it will reach a value of US$22.27 billion, as reported by BlueWeave Consulting. “The consumers have become more conscious about their health and wellness, environmental impact and animal abuse, so they are constantly looking for alternatives,” says Mauricio Brito, COO, Heartbeast Foods, to MBN. 

By incorporating more plant-based protein sources and reducing meat intake, individuals can make healthier choices for their overall well-being. Reducing meat consumption has been linked to a decreased risk of various health conditions, including obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and several types of cancer, as reported by the American Heart Association.

Moreover, adopting a plant-based diet can influence or modify factors known to contribute to the development or progression of cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of global mortality as they take over 17 million lives each year, according to WHO. In Mexico, about 220,000 individuals lost their lives to cardiovascular diseases in 2021. Out of these, 177,000 deaths were attributed to myocardial infarction, a condition that can be preventable by avoiding or managing the risk factors.

However, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy plant-based diet, requiring effective methods of motivation and support. Diets emphasizing plant-based foods and reducing animal product consumption may be more sustainable for long-term adherence. 

In Mexico, about 9% of the adult population adheres to a plant-based diet. Nonetheless, the current dietary pattern in Mexico has gradually shifted toward the inclusion of calorie-dense and nutrient-poor foods. This shift in dietary habits and nutritional choices has been associated with an elevated risk of overweight and obesity, as it replaces the consumption of traditional, nutrient-rich foods.

In Mexico, 39.1% of adults over 19 years old are overweight and 36.1% are obese, according to the ENSANUT 2018. Mexico is also one of the 11 countries where half of all women live with obesity and one of the nine countries where half of all men live with obesity. It is forecasted that by 2030 Mexico will be one of the countries with the highest prevalence of obesity among men, as reported by MBN. 

Photo by:   pixabay , silviarita

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