Lipid physiology and nutritional considerations in coronary heart disease

Most authorities recommend a prudent diet, moderate exercise, and the maintenance of ideal body weight Although lowering total cholesterol and LDL levels has been demonstrated to lower CHD risk, the results of major clinical trials do not indicate a reduction in overall mortality. CHD is a complicated, multifaceted disease. In addition to recognized risk factors, there may be many more that have yet to be identified. With this in mind, it is important that the nurse does not place unmitigated stress on patients to make radical changes in diet and lifestyle. Moderation is the key in striking a balance between a prudent dietary regimen and the stress that such a regimen might induce. It would be wrong to lead patients to believe that dietary intervention will provide a panacea for all their ills. The adoption of a prudent diet can reduce the incidence of CHD morbidity. The benefits of lowering serum cholesterol may lie more in overall physical and psychologic fitness rather than longevity.