The impact of diet on coronary heart disease.

The epidemiologic relationship between dietary intake and coronary heart disease (CHD) is reviewed by presenting the findings of the major large national and international cohort studies. There is considerable heterogeneity in the results from these studies because of the many differences in design, sample population, and analysis. Dietary intervention studies, which have numerous limitations, likewise have reported discrepant results, although short-term dietary changes do appear to reduce the likelihood of CHD progression. Although proof is lacking that the currently recommended prudent dietary patterns reduce the incidence or severity of CHD, healthy dietary choices are both inexpensive and safe and are supported by a foundation of sound biological principles.