Implementation of a Plant-Based, Nutrition Program in a Large Integrated Health Care System: Results of a Pilot Program

INTRODUCTION: Despite the proven efficacy of plant-based diets in the management of cardiometabolic diseases, most healthcare providers do not incorporate them into treatment plans. OBJECTIVE: Conduct a post-hoc evaluation of a novel plant-based nutrition program in a large integrated health care system, including the impact on health care outcomes. METHODS: A large integrated health care system launched an innovative 12-week plant-based nutrition program that included weekly nutrition education, peer mentoring, and support. Plasma cholesterol levels, hemoglobin A1C, blood pressure, body weight, and healthcare utilization parameters were measured before and after the program. The current study is a pre- and post-descriptive analysis of the health metrics of individuals who participated in the program and a matched comparison group. RESULTS: A total of 408 patients, across a wide range of weight categories, demographics, and co-morbidities, participated in a plant-based nutrition program, and program completers experienced mean reductions in total and LDL plasma cholesterol levels of 11.0 and 8.1 mg/dL, respectively, as well as reductions in medication usage, office visits, and body weight. CONCLUSION: Implementation of a novel plant-based, nutrition program in a large integrated health care system was associated with improvements in health outcomes.