Scientists in Canada reviewing the research so far on links between different diets and heart disease found strong evidence that diets high in vegetables and nuts, and those that follow a Mediterranean pattern rich in fruit, vegetables and fish were strongly associated with lower heart disease risk than those that rely on food with a high glycemic index or high in trans-fatty acids. High glycemic index food includes rice, pasta and refined carbohydrates like white bread, and foods high in trans-fatty acids include fried foods, baked goods and snacks.
A systematic review of the evidence supporting a causal link between dietary factors and coronary heart disease.
Mente A, de Koning L, Shannon HS, Anand SS.
Arch Intern Med. 2009 Apr 13;169(7):659-69.
PMID: 19364995