Elevations of LDL and plasma cholesterol are established predictive risk factors for predisposing to early coronary heart disease. Conversely, HDL has a protective anti-atherogenic effect. The hyperlipidemias are classified according to a genetic basis (primary) and the result of other diseases (secondary). Diet is an important and modifiable determinant of the lipid concentration in plasma. Restricting saturated fat consumption, increasing intake of polyunsaturated fat and reducing dietary cholesterol are key to hyperlipidemias with elevated LDL. Weight reduction, decreased alcohol consumption, and in some individuals, restriction of simple sugar intake are the primary means for treating hyperlipidemias.