A survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult found that many US adults incorrectly believe that animal-based foods, such as chicken, lean cuts of red meat, and eggs, are beneficial for reducing blood cholesterol levels. This widespread misunderstanding highlights a significant gap in public knowledge of how diet affects cholesterol and cardiovascular health.

According to the poll, over half of respondents said they would be open to trying a plant-based diet to lower their cholesterol levels or reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. Plant-based foods like beans, whole grains, and soy products were correctly identified as cholesterol-reducing foods by roughly half of the participants. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine emphasizes the benefits of a plant-based diet in reducing hyperlipidemia and improving heart health, while also pointing out the potential cost savings associated with plant-based staples like beans, lentils, and soy milk.