Two low fat diets (total fat les than 30% of cal, and sat. fat less than 10% of cal) identical in total fat, saturated fat, carbohydrate, protein, and cholesterol levels, were fed for 4 weeks to see which would be more effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. The diet with added vegetables, whole grains, and legumes was twice as effective in lowering blood LDL cholesterol levels.

Reference: Gardner CD, Coulston A, et al. The effect of a Plant-Based Diet on Plasma Lipids in Hypercholesterolemic Adults, Annals of Internal Medicine 142:725-733, May 3, 2003