AHA 2016: Diet and Cardiovascular Risk

November 17, 2016

Three studies from AHA 2016 covered the dangers of yo-yo dieting, a program to reduce sugary drink consumption, and high protein diets.

Presentations at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions highlighted the importance of diet on cardiovascular risk. The first study examines risk associated with weight cycling, or yo-yo dieting, in post-menopausal women. Next, researchers share results of a 3-year community campaign to reduce consumption of sugary drinks. Finally, researchers question what effects dietary protein has on heart failure rates in post-menopausal women.

AHA 2016: Diet and Cardiovascular Risk. from American Heart Association Scientific Sessions

Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death and Coronary Heart Disease Mortality in Postmenopausal Women with History of Weight Cycling

Elevated midlife BMI is linked to sudden cardiac death (SCD) and coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality, but does weight cycling through adulthood increase these risks?

Weight cycling through adulthood may increase the risk of SCD and CHD mortality in post-menopausal women; this risk appears strongest in women with normal BMI.

Retail Soda Purchases Decrease after Two Years in a Community Campaign Promoting Better Beverage Choices

Can a multi-component, 3-year public health campaign reduce sales of sugary drinks?

This campaign could be a model for other communities to reduce sugary drink consumption.

Association of Dietary Protein, Animal and Vegetable Protein with the Incidence of Heart Failure among Postmenopausal Women

What are the effects of dietary protein on heart failure rates in post-menopausal women?

Further studies are needed, but vegetable protein seems to be protective against heart failure, while a high protein diet, particularly one high in meat, is associated with heart failure.