How is an unhealthy plant-based diet associated with coronary artery disease in the Nurses' Health Study 2?

An unhealthy plant-based diet is positively associated with coronary artery disease in the Nurses' Health Study 2, indicating that higher adherence to such a diet correlates with an increased risk of developing the disease. This association typically arises when the diet is composed of processed plant-based foods that may be high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and low in essential nutrients, leading to increased inflammation, higher body mass index, and other risk factors that contribute to coronary artery disease.

Understanding the context of plant-based diets is crucial. While plant-based diets are often prescribed for their health benefits, the quality of food choices is paramount. Diets rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, can be protective against heart disease. Conversely, a diet characterized by low-quality plant foods, such as sugary snacks, refined grains, and processed vegetarian options, can lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Thus, the study underscores the importance of not just the plant-based label but also the nutritional quality and processing of the foods included in such a diet. This positive association highlights the need for awareness about diet quality, even within plant-based eating patterns.