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Dietary Influences on Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk

  • Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke (J.A. Underberg and J. Newman, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Atherosclerosis Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purposeof Review

Professional organizations recommend various healthy dietary patterns for atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASCVD) prevention. The purpose of this review is to discuss the evidence for the recommended healthy dietary patterns and ASCVD risk reduction, as well as briefly review specific areas of controversy.

Recent Findings

The Mediterranean, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension, and plant-based dietary patterns have been associated with lower ASCVD risk in observational studies. The Mediterranean dietary pattern has been demonstrated to reduce ASCVD event risk in a large, randomized, controlled trial. Observational studies demonstrate dietary patterns with higher quality foods are associated with decreased ASCVD risk and mortality.

Summary

Healthy dietary patterns emphasize higher intakes of plant-based foods, lean animal protein sources, and non-tropical oils, while limiting intakes of sugar-sweetened products, refined grains, and processed meats. Encouraging individuals to consume healthy dietary patterns with high-quality foods can promote ASCVD prevention and overall health.

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Correspondence to Carol F. Kirkpatrick.

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Dr. Kirkpatrick reports other from National Lipid Association, Cardiometabolic Health Congress, CHLCME, McDonald’s Corporation, Cargill, and University of Delaware, outside the submitted work.

Dr. Maki reports grants from General Mills, Inc., Kellogg Company, PepsiCo, Inc., Corvidia/Novo Nordisk, and Indiana University Foundation; grants and other from Matinas BioPharma; and other from National Lipid Association and Integrity Medical Education, outside the submitted work; and President-elect of the National Lipid Association (unpaid leadership role).

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Kirkpatrick, C.F., Maki, K.C. Dietary Influences on Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk. Curr Atheroscler Rep 23, 62 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11883-021-00954-z

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