Reducing heart disease through the vegetarian diet using primary prevention.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate research on the vegetarian diet for its safety, effectiveness in reducing heart disease, special considerations, contraindications, and its association with decreased cardiovascular disease risk.


METHODS
Selected research and evidence-based dietary guidelines found by searching CINAHL, PubMed, Ovid databases, and the World Wide Web.


CONCLUSIONS
A carefully planned vegetarian diet with adequate supplementation may be effective for primary prevention of heart disease. The vegetarian diet is cost effective, safe, and relatively easy to implement.


CONCLUSIONS
Improved dietary choices can help improve many chronic conditions. Guidelines for proper nutrition within a vegetarian lifestyle are readily accessible to patients and professionals alike. Referral to a dietitian is an appropriate option in primary care settings.
School of Nursing, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA. msticher@hotmail.com
Megan A
MA
Sticher
Christine B
CB
Smith
Susan
S
Davidson
D014676:Diet, Vegetarian; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006710:Homocysteine / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011322:Primary Prevention; D012307:Risk Factors
D006710:Homocysteine