Vegan Diet
Vegan diets rapidly improve endothelial function, with measurable improvements in flow-mediated dilation (FMD) occurring within weeks. The high content of nitrates, antioxidants, and L-arginine from plant foods increases nitric oxide production and bioavailability, while the absence of oxidized lipids and pro-inflammatory compounds from animal products reduces endothelial damage. This improvement in endothelial function is a key mechanism by which plant-based diets reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
View all 52 Vegan Diet recipes
Confidence: High
Key foods: Beets and beet juice (nitrates), leafy greens like arugula and spinach, berries especially blueberries, walnuts, pomegranate, dark chocolate (70%+ cacao), garlic, extra virgin olive oil
How does Vegan Diet assist with Endothelial Dysfunction: Dietary nitrates from vegetables are converted to nitric oxide via the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, improving vasodilation and blood flow. Antioxidants like flavonoids and vitamin C protect nitric oxide from oxidative degradation and reduce oxidative stress that damages endothelial cells. The absence of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) precursors, oxidized cholesterol, and advanced glycation end products from animal products reduces endothelial inflammation and dysfunction, while improved lipid profiles reduce lipid infiltration into vessel walls.