This study addresses two challenges seen among African American (AA) participants during previous weight loss and dietary interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk: poor weight loss results and high attrition rates. Investigators will target both of these challenges by using a randomized design to compare a plant-based dietary intervention (vegan diet) vs. an omnivorous (omni) diet and by focusing on culturally-tailored food choices for AA adults living in the South. Therefore, the objective of the study is to conduct a culturally-tailored, randomized trial examining how a vegan diet affects CVD risk factors and weight as compared with an omni diet. The study will randomize overweight AA adults (n=130) to follow one of two different diets (vegan or omni) for 24 months. Investigators will accomplish objectives and test hypotheses by following two specific primary aims:

Primary Aims: Using a randomized design, determine the impact at 12 months of two different, culturally tailored diets (n=65 omni and n=65 vegan) on changes in:

1. Risk factors for CVD, including LDL cholesterol and blood pressure; and

2. Body weight.

   Secondary Aim

3. Examine long-term changes in CVD risk factors and body weight at 24 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-identify as African American
• Be between the ages of 18-65 years
• Body Mass Index between 25- 49.9 kg/m2
• Live in the Columbia, SC/Midlands area
• Be able to attend all monitoring and weekly class visits
• Be willing to be randomized to either diet

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently following a vegan diet
• Diagnosed with diabetes that is controlled by medication
• Currently pregnant or breastfeeding (or plan to become pregnant in the next 24 months)
• Under the age of 18 years old
• Over the age of 65 years old
• Currently participating in a weight loss program
• Has lost more than 10 pounds in the past 6 months
• Diagnosed with stroke or heart attack