Abstract 15086: Impact of Vegan Meal Kits on Cardiometabolic Endpoints: A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: While vegan diets have shown cardiometabolic health benefits, implementing such diets can pose a practical challenge. Boxed meal delivery kits have emerged in the market to meet this gap. We evaluated the impact of a vegan boxed meal kit (VBK) compared to a standard omnivorous boxed meal kit (OBK) on cardiometabolic endpoints. Methods: This was a randomized, controlled, parallel-designed trial. Overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m 2 ) military beneficiaries on a standard omnivorous diet were randomized to consume a VBK or OBK for 4 weeks. The meal kits provided lunch and dinner. The primary endpoint was change from baseline at 4 weeks in calculated low-density lipoproteins (LDL-c). Other lipid parameters and weight were also evaluated. Results: A total of 54 participants (38.8±11.6 years) completed the VBK (N=27) and OBK (N=27) groups. Baseline LDL-c in VBK and OBK groups were 109.7±34.2 mg/dL and 101.0±34.1 mg/dL respectively. Baseline weight in VBK and OBK groups were 202.8±39.9 pounds and 197.6±46.4 pounds respectively. LDL-c changed from baseline in the VBK and OBK groups by -10.0±19.3% and +1.0±15.0%, respectively (p=0.028). Weight changed from baseline in the VBK and OBK by -2.7±2.1% and -0.39±1.69%, respectively (p<0.001). Total cholesterol was significantly lower in the VBK, while no differences were seen in HDL and TG. Dietary compliance was excellent. Conclusion: Vegan boxed meal kits significantly reduced LDL-c and weight in a 4-week period, and may serve as a tool to implement cardiometabolic dietary interventions. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this material are of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, or the University of the Pacific. The voluntary, fully informed consent of the subjects used in this research was obtained as required by 32 CFR 219 and DODI3216.02_AFI40-402, Protection of Human Subjects and Adherence to Ethical Standards in Air Force Supported Research.