A recent study conducted by Stanford Medicine researchers, published in JAMA Network Open on Nov. 30, reveals that a vegan diet can significantly enhance cardiovascular health in just eight weeks. The unique aspect of this research involved studying 22 pairs of identical twins, allowing the scientists to control for genetic differences, upbringing, and lifestyle choices.
Traditionally, diet studies on cardiovascular health face challenges due to various factors, including genetic variations and lifestyle disparities. However, by focusing on identical twins raised in similar environments, the researchers could isolate the impact of diet changes. The twins were selected from the Stanford Twin Registry, a database of twins participating in research studies.
Positive Outcomes and Feasibility
The trial, spanning from May to July 2022, included 44 participants, each part of an identical twin pair. One twin in each pair adhered to a vegan diet, while the other followed an omnivore diet. Both diets emphasized a healthy selection of vegetables, legumes, fruits, and whole grains while excluding sugars and refined starches. The vegan diet excluded all animal products.
Results indicated that the vegan diet led to significant improvements in cardiovascular health indicators, including lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), insulin, and body weight. The first four weeks of the diet change showed the most substantial improvements.
The study, led by Professor Christopher Gardner, demonstrated the feasibility of adopting a healthy diet in four weeks. Gardner emphasized that the generalizable diet used in the study is accessible to anyone, as evidenced by 21 out of 22 vegans successfully adhering to the diet.
In conclusion, the findings suggest that transitioning to a vegan diet can yield notable cardiovascular benefits in just two months. While not everyone may opt for a strictly vegan lifestyle, incorporating more plant-based foods into one’s diet can still contribute to improved health. Gardner suggests that such dietary changes not only enhance cardiovascular health but may also offer additional benefits, such as increased gut bacteria and a reduction in telomere loss, slowing aging in the body.