A Clinical Trial Determined the Best Diet for Weight Management for Blacks

What diet is most effective for weight management and heart health in Black Americans? The Nutritious Eating with Soul (NEW Soul) study sought to answer this question through a clinical trial testing a plant-based diet. This randomized controlled trial delves into this question by comparing the impacts of two dietary interventions on Black participants at risk for cardiovascular disease. Why is this Study Important? Black Americans face a disproportionate burden of heart disease compared to white adults. They experience higher death rates and obesity prevalence, highlighting the need for targeted dietary strategies. While plant-based diets (PBDs) have gained recognition for their potential to promote weight loss and improve heart health, most research has focused on white populations. The NEW Soul study addresses this gap by investigating the effectiveness of a PBD in a Black American cohort. What Did the Study Do? The NEW Soul study assigned participants to either a low-fat, plant-based vegan diet or a low-fat omnivorous (meat and vegetables) diet. Both groups received nutrition education and followed their assigned diets for 24 months. Researchers meticulously monitored their weight, blood lipid profiles (including cholesterol levels), and other health markers throughout the study to assess the impact of diet on...