Which study demonstrated an independent inverse association between adherence to a healthy plant-based diet and coronary artery disease (CAD)?

The Nurses' Health Study 2 and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study are significant large-scale cohort studies that have contributed extensively to our understanding of dietary patterns and their health impacts, particularly on coronary artery disease (CAD). These studies tracked diverse populations over extended periods, collecting detailed dietary intake data, which has allowed researchers to explore the relationships between various diet types and health outcomes.

In this context, these studies have demonstrated an independent inverse association between adherence to a healthy plant-based diet and the incidence of CAD. This means that individuals who closely followed a healthy plant-based diet experienced lower rates of coronary artery disease, independent of other factors. This relationship is believed to arise from the beneficial components of plant-based diets, such as higher fiber content, lower saturated fat, and abundant phytochemicals, all of which contribute to improved heart health.

The robustness and reliability of these findings stem from the comprehensive data collection methods and the large sample sizes used in these studies, allowing for powerful statistical analyses that can adequately adjust for confounding variables. This provides a strong evidence base for advocating plant-based dietary patterns as a preventive measure against coronary artery disease.