Evaluation of serum lipid and lipoprotein levels in normal Chinese. The influence of dietary habit, body weight, exercise and a familial record of coronary heart disease.

The effects of dietary habit, body weight, physical activity and a familial record of coronary heart disease on serum lipid and lipoprotein levels in Chinese were examined. Increased dietary preference for animal meat products was associated with increased serum cholesterol and beta-lipoprotein levels. Increased carbohydrate intake and overweight were associated with increased serum triglyceride and pre-beta-lipoprotein levels. A familial record of coronary heart disease was associated with increased serum total lipid and pre-beta-lipoprotein levels. Based on these results, the factors which influence the serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in Chinese are probably similar to those in other ethnic groups.