Dietary Intake, Changes in Lipid Parameters and the Risk of Hypertriglyceridemia: A Prospective Approach in the...

This study assessed the association of dietary factors with 3-year changes in serum triglycerides (TG), HDL-C and the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) among Iranian adults.

This longitudinal study was conducted with 1938 adults. Demographics, anthropometrics and biochemical measurements, including serum (TG) and HDL-C and AIP, were assessed at baseline (2006 - 2008) and after a 3 year follow-up (2009 - 2011). Dietary data was collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire at baseline. The associations of dietary factors with 3-year changes in lipid parameters were evaluated using linear regression models and the incidence of hypertriglyceridemia after 3 years was assessed using logistic regression models with adjustment for potential confounders.

The mean age of the participants at baseline was 41.0 ± 13.0 years. Dietary energy density was negatively associated with HDL-C and positively associated with AIP changes (P < 0.05). A three-year change of serum TG was inversely related to energy intake from phytochemical rich foods, whole grains, and legumes (P < 0.05). Fast food intake was positively related to serum TG and AIP changes. Higher compared to lower intakes of dietary fiber and phytochemical-rich foods had similar impacts on a decreased risk of hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 0.58, 95 % CI = 0.34 - 1.00). Higher - compared to lower - dietary sodium to potassium ratios (Na/K ratio) increased the risk of hypertriglyceridemia by 63 % (OR = 0.1.63, 95 % CI = 0.34 - 1.00).

These findings suggested that more dense diets, and a higher intake of fast food and fat, could have undesirable effects on lipid and lipoprotein levels; in contrast, higher intakes of fiber, and phytochemical rich foods, especially whole grain and legumes, could have protective effects against undesirable changes in lipid and lipid profiles.