Adopting a plant-based diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote longevity, but not all plant-based foods are created equal. A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health — Europe highlights that ultraprocessed plant-based foods, such as boxed macaroni and cheese, frozen veggie pizza, and fast-food French fries, can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and early death.
Duane Mellor, a registered dietitian at Aston Medical School, warns that plant-based does not always mean healthy. Many ultraprocessed foods, though meat-free, contain high levels of sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, which raise bad cholesterol and hypertension.
The study, led by researchers at the University of São Paulo, found that ultraprocessed plant-based foods increased the risk of cardiovascular disease by 5% and early death by 13%. Conversely, replacing 10% of these foods with fresh or minimally processed plant foods lowered the risk of cardiovascular disease by 7% and early death by 13%.
Renata Levy, senior study author, emphasizes that the degree of food processing determines its health impact. The study suggests focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, and minimally processed foods, such as canned goods and frozen vegetables, to improve cardiovascular health.
While the study includes various plant-based ultraprocessed foods, it is challenging to isolate the specific impact of plant-based meat alternatives like sausages and burgers, which constituted only 0.5% of the ultraprocessed foods examined.
Experts, including Tom Sanders from King’s College London, advocate for well-balanced plant-based diets like the Mediterranean or DASH diets, which naturally avoid unhealthy ultraprocessed foods, regardless of whether they are industrially or home-made.
