A vegan diet reduces the risk of arthritis, heart attack and stroke

Scientists at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, published a study in the journal Arthritis Research and Therapy showing that a vegan diet can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as facilitate the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Researchers studied 66 adults with rheumatoid arthritis, the average age of 50 years. 38 persons placed on a vegan diet (no foods of animal origin) in which carbohydrates provided 60% of daily calories, fat 30% and 10% protein.

28 people tested in the control group were on a diet that includes animal foods with a similar ratio of carbohydrates, fats and proteins as well as those on a vegan diet. They were encouraged to eat five or more times per day fruits and vegetables you eat complex carbs such as potatoes and whole grains instead of refined.

After a year, scientists have measured a few bio-indicators at all persons and noticed that people in the vegan group experienced a drop in body mass index, total cholesterol and LDL ('bad') cholesterol. Levels of triglycerides and HLD ("good") cholesterol remained unchanged. It happened, and increasing levels of 'antiPC' antibodies, which are believed to help protect the body from cardiovascular disease.

These findings are compatible with previous test results of persons on vegetarian / vegan diet, which showed decreases in blood pressure, lower BMI and lower risk of cardiovascular disease, said the scientists.

Around 20 million people worldwide suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. High levels of LDL and total cholesterol, and high body mass index are risk factors for heart attack and stroke.

Research indicates that a vegan diet directly affects the maintenance of good health.