Research highlights the significant impact of dietary choices on cardiometabolic health, particularly emphasizing the replacement of animal products with plant-based foods. In an interview with Pharmacy Times, Dr. Hana Kahleova, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, elaborated on findings that underline the role of nutrition in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Kahleova, the lead author of the recent review, pointed out that pharmacists can play a crucial role in patient education regarding dietary changes during routine medication encounters. The study revealed that the source of food significantly influences cardiometabolic risk, indicating that while ultra-processed animal products, especially processed meats, are linked to increased disease risk, many processed plant-based foods exhibit neutral or protective effects.
Pharmacists as Key Health Educators
Kahleova emphasized that when pharmacists dispense medications for conditions like hyperlipidemia, hypertension, or type 2 diabetes, they have a unique opportunity to discuss the importance of nutrition with patients. “Our review indicates that replacing animal products with plant-based foods correlates with a reduction in cardiometabolic risk, even when some of those plant foods are processed,” she stated.
The review highlights a compelling juxtaposition: while ultra-processed animal products consistently increase disease risk, many processed plant-based options, such as breads and cereals, have been associated with protective benefits. This distinction underscores the importance of food source in dietary recommendations.
Pharmacists are encouraged to guide patients away from reliance on animal products, advocating instead for a shift towards fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Kahleova noted that such dietary changes can complement pharmacologic therapies and lead to improved health outcomes.
Identifying Healthy Plant-Based Choices
While the review underlined that not all plant-based foods are nutritionally equivalent, it asserted that replacing animal products with plant foods generally enhances cardiometabolic health. Kahleova suggested that pharmacists can assist patients in distinguishing between healthier plant-based options and those that offer fewer benefits.
“Pharmacists can provide straightforward advice focused on dietary patterns rather than seeking perfection,” she explained. Core food groups—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes—should form the foundation of a healthful diet due to their high fiber content, low saturated fat levels, and rich nutrient profiles.
Additionally, commonly consumed processed plant-based foods, such as plant milks and meat alternatives, can still be beneficial when they replace animal products. Kahleova urged pharmacists to encourage patients to embrace these practical and familiar foods to help facilitate long-term dietary changes.
Kahleova also pointed out that certain dietary swaps can have significant impacts on health. For instance, processed meats like bacon and sausage are linked to increased risks of heart disease and diabetes, whereas ultra-processed plant-based alternatives can lower these risks.
Pharmacists can recommend simple substitutions that are realistic for patients, emphasizing that even minor changes—particularly those replacing processed meats—can lead to meaningful improvements in health over time.
In conclusion, the research underscores the vital connection between diet and health. Through effective counseling, pharmacists can empower patients to make informed dietary choices that significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As Kahleova stated, “Encouraging a shift towards plant-based foods can profoundly enhance cardiometabolic health alongside standard medical therapies.”
