What does the INTERMAP study suggest about plant-based diets?

The INTERMAP study highlights the relationship between dietary patterns and blood pressure, specifically focusing on plant-based diets. The findings suggest that a higher healthy plant-based diet score is associated with lower systolic blood pressure. This indicates that individuals who consume more nutrient-rich, plant-based foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes—tend to have healthier blood pressure levels.

The positive correlation implies that incorporating more of these foods into one's diet can have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health, particularly in managing blood pressure. This provides evidence supporting the advocacy for plant-based eating patterns as part of lifestyle modifications aimed at improving overall health and reducing hypertension risk.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the evidence provided by the INTERMAP study, as they either negate the beneficial effects of plant-based diets or make unfounded claims about fiber intake and diet comparisons.