Thesis Abstract

**Abstract
** Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with dietary factors playing a significant role in the prevention and management of these conditions. Plant-based diets have gained attention for their potential cardiovascular benefits, but the exact impact of these diets on cardiovascular health in adults remains a topic of ongoing research and debate. This thesis presents a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at evaluating the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health outcomes in adults. The introduction chapter provides a comprehensive background of the study, highlighting the rising burden of CVDs globally and the potential role of diet in mitigating this burden. The problem statement underscores the gaps in current literature regarding the specific effects of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health, setting the stage for the research objectives. The objectives of the study include synthesizing existing evidence on the relationship between plant-based diets and cardiovascular outcomes, identifying potential mechanisms of action, and assessing the overall impact on cardiovascular risk factors. Despite the potential benefits of plant-based diets, limitations are acknowledged, including variations in study designs, dietary definitions, and participant characteristics. The scope of the study focuses on adult populations and includes various types of plant-based diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, and Mediterranean diets. The significance of the study lies in providing evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals and policymakers to promote cardiovascular health through dietary interventions. The literature review chapter critically examines ten key studies that have investigated the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health outcomes. Studies encompassing diverse methodologies, populations, and outcomes are analyzed to draw comprehensive conclusions about the relationship between plant-based diets and cardiovascular health. The research methodology chapter outlines the systematic review and meta-analysis approach employed to synthesize existing evidence. Eight key components, including study selection criteria, data extraction methods, and statistical analysis techniques, are detailed to ensure transparency and rigor in the research process. In the discussion of findings chapter, the synthesized evidence is comprehensively analyzed, considering the strengths and limitations of the included studies. The impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers is explored, shedding light on the potential mechanisms underlying the observed effects. Finally, the conclusion and summary chapter consolidate the key findings of the study, highlighting the overall impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults. Implications for clinical practice, public health interventions, and future research directions are discussed to guide further advancements in the field of nutrition and cardiovascular health. In conclusion, this thesis provides a comprehensive examination of the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the role of plant-based diets in promoting cardiovascular health and offer valuable insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals seeking to optimize their dietary choices for cardiovascular well-being.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "The Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Cardiovascular Health in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" aims to explore and analyze the effects of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults. This research overview provides a detailed explanation of the project, outlining its significance, objectives, methodology, and potential contributions to the field of human nutrition and dietetics. **Significance of the Study:** Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with dietary factors playing a significant role in the development and progression of these conditions. Plant-based diets, characterized by a high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, have been associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the specific impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults remains a topic of ongoing research and debate. This study seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence on this subject. **Objectives of the Study:** The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the effects of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health outcomes in adults. Specific objectives include: 1. To assess the association between plant-based diets and cardiovascular disease risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. 2. To examine the impact of plant-based diets on markers of cardiovascular health, including blood pressure, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers. 3. To compare the effectiveness of different types of plant-based diets (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, Mediterranean) in improving cardiovascular health outcomes. 4. To identify gaps in the current literature and provide recommendations for future research in this area. **Methodology:** This study will employ a systematic review and meta-analysis approach to synthesize the available evidence on the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults. The research will involve the following steps: 1. Identification of relevant studies through comprehensive literature search using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. 2. Selection of eligible studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. 3. Data extraction and synthesis of key findings related to the effects of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health outcomes. 4. Statistical analysis using meta-analytic methods to quantitatively assess the overall impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health markers. 5. Interpretation of results and discussion of implications for clinical practice and public health policy. **Potential Contributions:** By systematically reviewing and analyzing the existing literature on the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults, this project aims to provide valuable insights into the role of dietary patterns in preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases. The findings of this study may have implications for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals seeking to improve their cardiovascular health through dietary modifications. Additionally, this research could help identify areas for further investigation and guide the development of targeted interventions aimed at promoting plant-based diets for cardiovascular disease prevention. In conclusion, the project "The Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Cardiovascular Health in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" holds promise for advancing our understanding of the relationship between dietary patterns and cardiovascular health outcomes in adults. By synthesizing and analyzing the available evidence, this study seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the role of plant-based diets in promoting cardiovascular wellness and reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the adult population.