Home / Health / Cholesterol-Busting Diet Matches Meds' Effectiveness, Experts Say
Cholesterol-Busting Diet Matches Meds' Effectiveness, Experts Say
17 Nov
Summary
- Portfolio Diet lowers cholesterol, inflammation, and heart disease risk
- Diet focuses on plant-based foods like nuts, soy, oats, and beans
- Some studies suggest it may be as effective as certain medications
According to the article, a plant-based eating plan known as the Portfolio Diet is gaining attention for its potential to lower cholesterol and support overall heart health. The diet, reportedly developed by a professor at the University of Toronto, focuses on specific plant-based foods that have been shown to block cholesterol absorption, remove LDL from the bloodstream, and reduce inflammation.
Research suggests the Portfolio Diet may be as effective as some prescription medications in lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol, without the side effects. The diet revolves around four key components: soluble fiber, plant proteins, nuts and plant sterols. Together, these elements work to improve heart health.
Experts say the Portfolio Diet stands out from other heart-healthy plans because it is more structured. Following the diet has been associated with significant reductions in LDL cholesterol, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors, leading to a 14% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
