The Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Cardiovascular Health in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis aims to investigate the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases globally underscores the importance of exploring dietary interventions that may help mitigate this health burden. Plant-based diets have gained popularity for their potential cardiovascular benefits, such as reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and promoting weight management. However, the extent and consistency of these effects across various studies remain unclear. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the topic, highlighting the background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. Chapter 2 presents a comprehensive literature review comprising ten key themes related to plant-based diets and cardiovascular health. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology, including the selection criteria for studies, search strategies, data extraction methods, quality assessment procedures, and statistical analyses for the meta-analysis. The methodology section also discusses potential sources of bias and strategies to address them. Chapter 4 presents a detailed discussion of the findings from the systematic review and meta-analysis. The results are analyzed in the context of the current literature, highlighting the strengths and limitations of the evidence. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses are conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the robustness of the findings. Finally, Chapter 5 provides a conclusion and summary of the thesis, synthesizing the key findings, implications for practice and policy, and recommendations for future research. The thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of plant-based diets on cardiovascular health in adults, offering insights into the potential benefits and limitations of these dietary patterns. By synthesizing and analyzing the available evidence, this thesis aims to inform healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals about the role of plant-based diets in promoting cardiovascular health and preventing cardiovascular diseases.