ROLE OF PLANT-BASED DIETS (PBDS) IN MANAGING LIFESTYLE DISEASES: A PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABLE HEALTH

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the role of plant-based diets (PBDs) in managing lifestyle diseases by evaluating the effect of PBD adoption on key health outcomes and overall quality of life. The study aims to provide a structured understanding of how plant-based dietary practices contribute to sustainable health outcomes.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research design was employed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze the relationships between adoption of a plant-based diet and multiple lifestyle-disease outcomes. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and both measurement and structural models were assessed to examine the strength and significance of direct relationships.

Findings: The results indicate that adoption of a plant-based diet has a positive and statistically significant effect on all examined outcomes, including blood pressure management, cholesterol and lipid profile improvement, glycemic control, weight and obesity management, and overall quality of life. Among these, weight and obesity management demonstrated the strongest effect, highlighting the effectiveness of plant-based dietary patterns in sustainable disease management.

Implications: The findings offer valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, nutrition professionals, and policymakers in designing evidence-based dietary strategies and public health interventions aimed at lifestyle-disease management and sustainable health promotion.

Originality: This study contributes to the literature by empirically validating multiple health outcomes of plant-based diet adoption within a single integrated analytical framework, providing a comprehensive perspective on PBDs as an effective lifestyle intervention.