Plant-Based Diets and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Older Adults: An Integrative Literature Review
2024
Plant-Based Diets and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Older Adults
Sample size: 17
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tricia Fran VanCleef, Earl Ziegler
Primary Institution: College of Nursing, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Do plant-based diets improve cardiovascular disease risk factors in older adults?
Conclusion
Plant-based diets may help reduce key cardiovascular disease risk factors in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- All studies showed at least one positive association between plant-based diets and cardiovascular health in older adults.
- Significant associations were found between plant-based diet adherence and reductions in LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and BMI.
- Potential benefits include reducing coronary artery calcium and enhancing endothelial function.
Takeaway
Eating more plant-based foods can help older people stay heart-healthy.
Methodology
An integrative review of 17 publications assessing plant-based diets and cardiovascular disease risk factors in individuals aged 65 and older.
Limitations
The review indicates a need for larger randomized control trials to strengthen the evidence.
Participant Demographics
Older adults aged 65 years and older.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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