Effects of a 4-week Raw, Plant-based Diet on Anthropometric and Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Plant-based diets have emerged in the literature as effective therapeutic strategies in the
reduction of body weight, serum lipids and blood pressure. In addition, raw fruit and
vegetable consumption has also been associated with the reduction of these clinical
indicators.

Participants were instructed to follow a prescribed, raw, plant-based dietary intervention
for four weeks. All animal products, including eggs and dairy, were excluded. Cooked foods,
free oils, soda, alcohol and coffee were also to be excluded. All meals and snacks were
provided to the participants for the full duration of the intervention. Emphasized were raw
fruits and vegetables, while seeds, avocado, raw oats, raw buckwheat, and dehydrated foods
were prepared as condiments. Vitamin, herbal, and mineral supplements were to be discontinued
unless otherwise clinically indicated. Participants were not advised to alter their exercise
habits.

Participants came to a total of 4 follow-up visits. A laboratory panel was obtained at
baseline and at 4-weeks. A 24-hour recall was also conducted at baseline and at 4-weeks.
Anthropometrics, hemodynamics, and medication needs were assessed on a weekly basis.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Body Mass Index ≥25.0 kg/m^2

- Serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration ≥100

- Systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90

Exclusion Criteria:

- Tobacco use

- Drug abuse

- Excessive alcohol consumption (>2 glasses of wine or alcohol equivalent per day for
men or >1 glass of wine or alcohol equivalent for woman)

- Current cancer diagnosis

- Estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mg/dL

- Clinically defined infection

- Mental disability

- Hospitalization <6 months

- Previous exposure to plant-based diet