Nutrition 2

DIETARY FATS
The incidence of a number of chronic diseases are significantly influenced by the kinds and amounts of nutrients consumed (Figure). The role of dietary fats and the risk for CHD have been thoroughly documented.
A. Plasma cholesterol and coronary heart disease
Plasma cholesterol may arise from the diet or from endogenous biosynthesis. In either case, cholesterol is transported between the tissues in combination with protein and phospholipids as lipoproteins.
1-LDL and HDL: The level of plasma cholesterol is not precisely regulated, but rather varies in response to the diet. Elevated levels result in an increased risk for cardiovascular disease . The risk increases progressively with higher values for serum total cholesterol. A much stronger correlation exists between the levels of blood LDL cholesterol and heart disease. In contrast, high levels of HDL cholesterol have been associated with a decreased risk for heart disease. Abnormal levels of plasma lipids(dyslipidaemias) act in combination with smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and other risk factors to increase the risk of CHD. Elevated plasma triacylglycerols are also a risk factor for CHD, but the association is weaker than that of LDL cholesterol with CHD.