Question: I’m a 42 year old man and heart problems run in my family. My father and one of the grandfathers died of heart attacks. I’ve never been a big meat eater, but I’m thinking of going completely vegetarian to prevent heart disease. Do you think I’m overreacting or will being a vegan reduce my risk?


Dr. Hibberd’s answer:

If your father and grandfather died of heart attacks in their 50s then, you also do run a risk for a heart attack. One big study has suggested that vegetarians, vegans, and fish-eaters have a reduced risk for heart disease and associated death. Becoming vegetarian is a good thing, it helps in more ways than one: increases fiber in your diet, helps you to maintain a healthy body weight and lipid profile.