Women who regularly eat a low carbohydrate, high protein diet are at greater risk of cardiovascular disease than those who do not, a study suggests.

The study of Swedish women reported an additional four to five cases per year of cardiovascular disease per 10,000 women amongst those who followed the protein-rich diet.

Victoria Taylor, Senior Dietitian at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said:  “This study highlights the need for us to achieve balance in our diets, rather than pitting nutrients against each other.

“Don’t feel you have to choose between carbohydrates or protein – a bit of both is better for your long term heart health. Eating a mixture of all food groups, rather than cutting anything out completely, will help you to stay healthy inside and out.

“Try and include lean proteins and low fat dairy, wholegrain and high fibre carbohydrates, along with lots of fruit and veg and small amounts of healthy fats in your diet. Enjoying all of these in a balanced way is far better for both your heart and your waistline than trying to stick to a strict diet.”

Visit the BHF website for more tips on healthy eating and, if you’re in need of further inspiration, check out our new Everyday British recipe book available from our online shop.

This study was published online in the British Medical Journal.

Issued in response to: Low carbohydrate-high protein diet and incidence of cardiovascular diseases in Swedish women: prospective cohort study. By Professor Pagona Lagiou et al. Published in The BMJ. DOI: 10.1136/bmj.e4026

The British Heart Foundation is the nation’s heart charity, dedicated to saving lives through pioneering research, patient care, campaigning for change and by providing vital information. But we urgently need help. We rely on donations of time and money to continue our life-saving work. Because together we can beat heart disease. For more information visit www.bhf.org.uk