28 Feb 2019 --- Following a diet that encourages a healthy gut microbiome, avoiding central obesity and getting enough sleep are among the lifestyle factors that may help to protect against heart disease and stroke, according to a report from the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) Task Force. The report, Cardiovascular Disease: Diet, Nutrition and Emerging Risk Factors: 2nd Edition, was presented yesterday at a conference for academics and health professionals. The Task Force is calling for further research, particularly regarding the link between specific gut bacteria and cardiovascular health.