Impact of plant-based diets and associations with health, lifestyle and healthcare utilisation: a population-based survey study

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of plant-based patterns in the Spanish population and assess their potential impact on individuals with similar socio-demographic backgrounds. DESIGN: We estimated vegetarian and vegan individuals' national and regional prevalence and analysed their socio-demographic characteristics and weekly dietary intake patterns. Individuals with a plant-based dietary pattern were matched to a control group (1:4) with similar socio-demographic characteristics. Associations with the prevalence risk of common chronic diseases, self-reported health status, lifestyle and healthcare use were analysed with unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models. SETTING: A population-based survey of individuals residing in Spain. PARTICIPANTS: Data from 22 072 participants were examined. RESULTS: . 14 %). Lifestyle factors did not differ between the plant-based and omnivorous groups; however, adherence to plant-based diets was associated with a prevalence risk of depressive symptoms (OR 2·58, 95 % CI: 1·00, 6·65), stroke (OR 7·08, 95 % CI: 1·27, 39·46) and increased consultations for mental health and complementary medicine (OR 3·21, 95 % CI: 1·38, 7·43). CONCLUSIONS: Plant-based diets are uncommon and are associated with specific socio-demographic profiles, particularly sex. When comparing individuals with similar socio-demographic characteristics, individuals with plant-based diets and omnivores had similar lifestyles. Addressing patient concerns regarding diet and personal well-being might prioritise healthy behaviours over specific dietary patterns.