Plant-forward Diet May Shield Older Women's Heart Health

A 20-year study of 66,892 initially cardio‑disease-free postmenopausal women found that higher adherence to the Planetary Health Diet was linked to lower risks of overall cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure, with about a 28% risk reduction in the highest-adherence group and benefits seen even with moderate adherence. The diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and unsaturated fats while limiting red/processed meats, added sugars, refined grains, and saturated fats. While observational and not causative, the findings suggest that gradual, realistic shifts toward plant-forward eating—such as filling half the plate with vegetables, using healthier fats, and trying meatless meals—could benefit heart health in aging women.