Reportedly developed by Dr. David J. A. Jenkins, a professor of nutrition and medicine at the University of Toronto and a clinician-scientist at St. Michael\u2019s Hospital in Toronto, Canada, the diet focuses on specific plant-based foods that have been shown to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and support overall heart health<\/a>.<\/p>\n Erin Palinski-Wade, a New Jersey-based registered dietitian nutritionist and author of “The 2-Day Diabetes Diet,” said the Portfolio Diet stands out from other heart-healthy plans because it is more structured.<\/p>\n EATING ONE TYPE OF NUT DAILY COULD LOWER ‘BAD’ CHOLESTEROL, IMPROVE HEART HEALTH, STUDY FINDS<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n “Research shows that following this diet is associated with significant reductions in LDL cholesterol, inflammation and cardiovascular risk factors, leading to a 14% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke,” Palinski-Wade told Fox News Digital.<\/p>\n “Because it prioritizes plant-based, cholesterol-lowering foods, it limits most animal products to help maximize heart-healthy benefits<\/a>.”<\/p>\n The Portfolio Diet limits animal products to cut saturated fat and emphasizes heart-healthy plant foods. (iStock)<\/p>\n The Portfolio Diet<\/a> \u2014 which also limits processed foods that are high in saturated fat \u2014 works by combining foods that target cholesterol in different ways.<\/p>\n The plan is known to revolve around the following four key components, each of which plays a unique role in supporting heart health.<\/p>\n HEART SURGEON REVEALS WHAT TO EAT (AND NOT EAT) FOR OPTIMAL CARDIAC HEALTH<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Some studies have suggested that this diet may lower LDL cholesterol as effectively as some medications without the side effects. (iStock)<\/p>\n Together, these four elements block cholesterol absorption, help remove LDL from the bloodstream and reduce inflammation in the arteries.<\/p>\n Some studies have suggested that this diet may lower LDL cholesterol as effectively as some medications without the side effects, Palinski-Wade added.\u00a0<\/p>\n A typical day on the Portfolio Diet<\/strong><\/p>\n Below are some examples of what one might eat on this diet plan, according to nutrition experts.<\/p>\n Breakfast might include<\/a> oatmeal made with soy milk, berries and sliced almonds, or a smoothie with soy milk, banana, oats and peanut butter.<\/p>\n CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n For lunch, lentil soup with whole-grain toast and a side salad is a satisfying option, while a mixed bean salad tossed with olive oil, lemon and walnuts also fits the plan.<\/p>\n Dinner could feature tofu and vegetable stir-fry served over quinoa or a chickpea and vegetable curry with brown rice.<\/p>\n Plant sterols and soluble fiber work together to block cholesterol absorption and help remove it from the body. (iStock)<\/p>\n Snacks such as soy yogurt with fruit and oats or a small handful of pistachios, almonds or walnuts add extra fiber and heart-healthy fats.\u00a0<\/p>\n Palinski-Wade noted that nuts are an important part of the plan, and eating one to two ounces a day<\/a> can make a difference. Pistachios, for example, offer protein, fiber and antioxidants that help lower LDL cholesterol and support heart health.<\/p>\n CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n While the Portfolio Diet can offer heart health benefits, it requires planning and consistency. Palinski-Wade suggests starting small to make the transition easier.\u00a0<\/p>\n TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n “Focus on [simple] swaps instead of trying to change your entire diet at once,” she advised. “Add in one or two key foods, like nuts or plant-based proteins<\/a>, and build from there.”<\/p>\n She also recommends using a food journal or tracking app to help monitor daily goals for protein, fiber and healthy fats.<\/p>\n Potential risks and caveats<\/p>\n The Portfolio Diet can be difficult to maintain because of its restrictive nature.<\/p>\n “Some individuals may encounter challenges in maintaining compliance, particularly in social settings or amid culinary temptations,” according to an article published in Nutritionist Resource.<\/p>\n Anyone interested in adopting the Portfolio Diet should speak with a doctor before proceeding. (iStock)<\/p>\n Some experts also warn about the potential for nutrient deficiencies \u2014 particularly vitamin B12, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.\u00a0<\/p>\n![\"Older](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/man-eating-salad.jpg\")
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