Postprandial triglyceride metabolism in diabetes mellitus

Individuals with diabetes have a two to four times higher risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than nondiabetics. Patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes share a similar risk. Studies in individuals with type 1 diabetes have shown a decreased clearance of postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoprotein particles of abnormal composition. Particles isolated from diabetic individuals show abnormal composition and an increased tendency to cause cholesteryl ester accumulation in macrophages and are therefore potentially atherogenic. Various interventions may alter these abnormalities and improve the atherosclerotic risk. These include adopting a high-carbohydrate diet over a high monounsaturated diet, improving glycemic control, infusing insulin intraperitoneally, and using pharmacologic therapies such as the statins.