Hyperlipoproteinemia and atherosclerosis: dietary intervention.

Elevated levels of plasma low-density lipoprotein and/or very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as seen in hypercholesterolemia and/or hypertriglyceridemia, are primarily caused by a diet high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories, and by excessive intake of alcohol. Dietary treatment constitutes the fundamental step in successful management of hyperlipidemia. An appropriately designed diet alleviates the problem to variable degrees, even in patients with primary types of hyperlipoproteinemia. Dietary therapy should be initiated when the serum cholesterol level is above 200 mg/dl in adults, and between 190 to 200 mg/dl in children, and when triglyceride values are consistently greater than 200 mg/dl. Because hyperlipidemia is often familial, due both to genetic influence and eating habits, dietary modification should be made early in life and incorporated as a permanent part of the family's life-style.