In this article, The Medical Experts @ The Health Standard, share their expert insights of the findings and provide North Carolina residents with evidence-based recommendations for protecting their health.
Why This Matters to You
A groundbreaking study from the UK Biobank reveals that not all plant-based foods are created equal when it comes to heart health. This finding is particularly relevant for residents of Buncombe County, North Carolina, where the popularity of plant-based diets continues to grow.
What This Means for Your Health
As you know, plant-based diets are generally associated with better heart health. But, the level of processing in these foods can significantly impact their health benefits.
Your goal: Choose fresh, whole plant-based foods over packaged alternatives to boost your heart health. Try Indian food!
Key Findings
- Consuming plant-based ultra-processed foods (UPFs) was associated with a 7% increase in cardiovascular disease risk--when compared to eating unprocessed plant-based foods.
- Replacing just 10% of you plant-based UPFs with minimally processed plant foods was linked to a 7% lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and a 15% lower risk of mortality from these conditions.
- All types of UPFs, whether plant-based or animal-based, were associated with higher risks of cardiovascular disease and related mortality.
Doctors' Expert Insights and Actionable Steps to Protect Your Heart Health While Eating Plant-Based Foods
Dr. Adriana Davis, Family Medicine, states: "This study and its findings continue to underscore that heavily processed foods are not entirely good for our health. The focus should be on not just choosing plant-based options--but also focusing on their level of processing. This will certainly optimize heart health and brain health."
Our panel of trusted physicians offers the following advice:
Prioritize whole plant foods: Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine, chimed in and advises: "I agree with Dr. Davis, try to fill your plate with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. These foods are naturally packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health. Also, keep in mind, processed foods have also been shown to increase the risk of colon cancer. If you're 45 or older and haven't had a colonoscopy, schedule one soon. Remember, most insurance plans cover this vital preventive procedure."
Consider mental health benefits: Owen Muir, MD, DFAACAP, a child and adult psychiatrist, added that "...eliminating ultra-processed foods is the easiest way to improve your health. As a psychiatrist, I want you to know that doing this might be one of the easiest ways to improve your mental health as well. And you should know that obesity is a leading driver of death and disability, and it's more common in people with psychiatric illnesses."
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Cook at home more often: Lindsay Boik-Price, DO, Emergency Medicine physician, recommends: "Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients and minimize ultra-processed foods in your diet. Consider joining local cooking classes offered by Buncombe County and other community centers to learn heart-healthy recipes. Also, keep in mind, regular check-ups are crucial. Take advantage of free blood pressure screenings offered at your local Buncombe County pharmacies. Also schedule annual physicals with your primary care provider. Keep a sharp eye on your cholesterol, A1C, and blood pressure values."
Stay informed about food trends: Dr. Puja Uppal, suggests: "Keep up with the latest nutritional research and recommendations. Read more of The Health Standard! Try to attend health fairs and workshops organized by your local departments of Health. And you should know that many insurances will cover nutrition services and even provide classes that help you make more informed food choices."
The Bottom Line
While plant-based diets can offer significant health benefits, it's crucial to focus on minimally processed options. Residents of Buncombe County, North Carolina should be mindful of their consumption of ultra-processed foods, even those marketed as healthy plant-based alternatives, to promote better cardiovascular health.
The dietary contribution of plant-sourced non-UPF inversely linked to CVD risk, while plant-sourced UPF contribution showed a positive association. Recognizing the role of food processing is crucial for favourable CVD outcomes, even in plant-sourced diets.
Read the study at The Lancet. (Visit Here)
Read More: Is there a new diet to lower the risk of dementia? Doctor Explains
10 Common Ultra-Processed Plant-Based Foods Consumed in Buncombe County
- Plant-based burger patties (e.g., Beyond Burger, Impossible Burger)
- Vegan cheese slices or shreds
- Plant-based chicken nuggets or tenders
- Veggie hot dogs or sausages
- Non-dairy ice cream alternatives
- Vegan protein bars
- Plant-based meal replacement shakes
- Flavored plant milk (e.g., chocolate almond milk)
- Vegan cookies or packaged baked goods
- Plant-based deli meat slices
Health Standard Newswire: Mom's always right. Eat fresh. Eat good.
Key Health and Medical Statistics of Buncombe County, North Carolina
Did you know there were 21302 deaths from heart disease in North Carolina in 2021?
28.4% of you in Buncombe County have been screened for cholesterol in the past 5 years.
8.4% of you in Buncombe County have been diagnosed with diabetes.
29.7% of you in Buncombe County are obese.
18.3% of you in Buncombe County report that you have no time for physical activity in the day.
Health Facts That Matter: The health data mentioned above have a direct impact on your physical well-being and play a crucial role in determining your overall health outcomes.
The Health Standard Newswire.
