Dietary management of hyperlipidemia

The atherogenic effects of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and the relationship between high levels of LDL-C and coronary heart disease are well established. The article briefly reviews significant research that has provided the rationale for dietary intervention in hyperlipidemia. The focus is the principles of dietary treatment and their clinical application. Methods of counseling and instruction aimed at lowering fat, cholesterol, and calorie consumption and strategies to improve patient compliance are discussed.