[Omega-3-fatty acids, Mediterranean cooking, low-fat diet. What really prevents myocardial infarct?]

The strength of evidence in support of dietary measures in the secondary prevention of coronary artery disease is variable (Table 1). The most impressive data available concern the impact of omega-3 fatty acids found in sea-fish at an intake of about 1.0 g/day, but the data underscoring the value of a Mediterranean diet are also convincing. No comparable data are available for low-fat and fat-modified diets. For diabetics, an HbA1c of < 7% should be achieved. There is indirect evidence that a body mass index of between 18.5 and 23.9 kg is optimal, and can be achieved by physical exercise and weight control. Weight reduction also lowers blood pressure, a goal that can equally be reached by a low-salt diet rich in fruit and vegetables, and the practice of endurance sports. The results of ongoing studies on the use of vitamin supplements are as yet unavailable.