[Diet therapy of hypercholesterolemia. From theory to practice]

Hypercholesterolemia, quite frequent in industrialized countries is a major risk factor of atherosclerosis, especially in the coronary arteries. Consensus conferences, in the United States as well as Europe, have established a practical approach to this field. The dietetic treatment, from a population standpoint, remains the corner-stone of the treatment of primary dyslipoproteinemias. The quality and quantity of lipids in the food, play a definite role. In order to lower cholesterolemia, the intake of total lipids and cholesterol must be lowered and the consumption of polyunsaturated or mono-unsaturated fatty acids must be increased. The advantage of fish (omega 3 fatty acid), soy-bean and food fibers, are discussed.