(June 8, 2009 - Insidermedicine) A low-calorie, low-carbohydrate diet high in plant-based protein and oils appears to improve risk factors for heart disease, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Here is some information on diet and health:

•    Food can be divided into three major types: protein, carbohydrates, and fats

•    It is unclear what proportion of each of these three types should be eaten to maintain optimal health

•    While low carbohydrate diets high in meat proteins have been shown to be beneficial for weight loss, they may worsen cholesterol problems

Researchers from the University of Toronto randomly assigned 47 overweight men and women with high LDL cholesterol to one of two low calorie diets. The first group ate a plant-based diet high in plant proteins and oils but low in carbohydrates. The second group ate a vegetarian diet that allowed egg and milk products and was high in carbohydrates.

The average amount of weight lost was 4 kg, regardless of which diet was followed. Those on the plant-based, low carbohydrate diet, however, had greater improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and other blood-based indicators of risk for heart disease.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. David Jenkins, the principal investigator of this study, who offered some further insight.

Today's research suggests that a plant-based diet low in cholesterol but high in plant proteins and oil might be a good option for those who need to lose weight and reduce their risk for heart disease.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.