Diet plays a huge role in atherosclerosis through impacting many of its associated risk factors, such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood-pressure, and diabetes. Recent guidelines cite strong evidence that weight loss in people with overweight or obesity can reduce atherosclerotic disease risk. There’s also strong evidence that a diet high in fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fish can reduce the risk for diseases caused by atherosclerosis. Weaker evidence suggests that swapping out saturated fat with mono- or polyunsaturated fats and minimizing processed meats and refined carbohydrates can also help.[1]
How could diet affect atherosclerosis?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Diet significantly influences atherosclerosis by affecting risk factors like obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fish can lower the risk of atherosclerotic diseases, and replacing saturated fats with healthier fats and reducing processed meats and refined carbohydrates may also be beneficial.