When we consider that the classic risk factors for atherosclerosis are valid as lifestyle guidelines, they don’t explain the majority of heart deaths. But when we take into account the condition (he degree of oxidation) of dietary fat and cholesterol, as well as the antioxidant status within the body, the picture becomes clearer.

Still other influences are playing a roll, of which the most significant appears to be a high
blood level of the amino acid homocysteine. This is showing up as being as great a risk as
high cholesterol or smoking.

According to all three theory groups, the safest way to avoid heart disease, as far as diet is
concerned, is to ensure that dietary fat is low and unsaturated, that dietary fat and
cholesterol are fresh, that antioxidant intake is high, and comply with the requirements for
save levels of homocysteine.

These guidelines, however, prescribe a plant-based diet with an abundance of fresh fruits
and vegetables. The dairy products that many vegetarians include can better be avoided or kept to very small amounts. Protein can be obtained from small quantities of legumes, nuts and seeds. Eggs could be retained at low levels for their vitamin B12 content.

Smoking and coffee are in particular to be avoided, but moderate tea consumption is acceptable, preferably green tea for its additional anti-cancer benefits.

The heart disease paradox is now largely solved and demonstrates yet another way
in which an unrefined, essentially plant-based diet, high in fresh fruits and vegetables,
is vastly superior to a high meat – and high-refined-carbohydrate diet, that is low in fruits and vegetables.