Effects of a 4-week Raw, Plant-based Diet on Anthropometric and Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Plant-based diets have emerged in the literature as effective therapeutic strategies in the reduction of body weight, serum lipids and blood pressure. In addition, raw fruit and vegetable consumption has also been associated with the reduction of these clinical indicators.

Participants were instructed to follow a prescribed, raw, plant-based dietary intervention for four weeks. All animal products, including eggs and dairy, were excluded. Cooked foods, free oils, soda, alcohol and coffee were also to be excluded. All meals and snacks were provided to the participants for the full duration of the intervention. Emphasized were raw fruits and vegetables, while seeds, avocado, raw oats, raw buckwheat, and dehydrated foods were prepared as condiments. Vitamin, herbal, and mineral supplements were to be discontinued unless otherwise clinically indicated. Participants were not advised to alter their exercise habits.

Participants came to a total of 4 follow-up visits. A laboratory panel was obtained at baseline and at 4-weeks. A 24-hour recall was also conducted at baseline and at 4-weeks. Anthropometrics, hemodynamics, and medication needs were assessed on a weekly basis.

Inclusion criteria

• Body Mass Index ≥25.0 kg/m^2
• Serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration ≥100
• Systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90

Exclusion criteria

• Tobacco use
• Drug abuse
• Excessive alcohol consumption (>2 glasses of wine or alcohol equivalent per day for men or >1 glass of wine or alcohol equivalent for woman)
• Current cancer diagnosis
• Estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mg/dL
• Clinically defined infection
• Mental disability
• Hospitalization <6 months
• Previous exposure to plant-based diet