[Trends in lipid consumption in the Czechoslovak population]

The health status of our population is not satisfactory, an important part in this respect is played among others also by nutrition. The authors submit information on changes in the energy, protein and fat consumption of the Czechoslovak population during the period between 1936 and 1987. The increase in fat consumption is due in the first place to the increased consumption of meat, milk, eggs and fats. While in 1936 the mean consumption was 79.0 g of fat per head per day, in 1987 the intake was more than 129 g, i.e. by 63% higher. In addition to fats the greatest contribution to fat intake is made by meat and meat products (40%), milk and dairy products (18%) and cereal products (13%). The increase in lipid consumption is one of the risk factors participating in the development of cardiovascular diseases, the trend of which is alarming. Improvement can be achieved by a change of dietary habits; the prerequisite is a nation-wide programme with an active approach in all spheres--from farmers, the food industry and commerce to all types of communal and family catering.