Hyperlipoproteinemia, atherosclerosis risk, and dietary management.

There is new impetus for dietary intervention in response to the recent data relating levels of circulating lipids and lipoproteins to atherosclerosis risk. Certain levels of cholesterol, stratified for age and sex, are associated with "moderate" and "high" risk of atherosclerosis. Knowing the relationship of diet to lipid levels and lipid transport by the various lipoproteins enables the appropriate diagnosis and management. Dietary measures include attention to the level of calories and fat, the type of fat, cholesterol content, source of protein, the type of carbohydrate and fiber, and the level of alcohol intake. Lipid (cholesterol) screening at intervals is recommended for all adults and for children at special risk of hyperlipidemia.