[Dietary recommendations for dyslipidemic individuals]

Diet prescription is a fundamental first-line element in the management of patients with dyslipidemia. Weight loss should be a primary goal for all overweight patients. A 5 to 10% weight loss is often sufficient to obtain a significant improvement in lipid levels. Dietary fat should not provide more than 30% of total calorie intake. Saturated fatty acids should not exceed 7% and polyunsaturated fatty acids should also be limited to 7 to 10%. For monounsaturated fatty acids the dietary allowance can be a bit wider, up to 15% of total calorie intake. Carbohydrates, particularly complex carbohydrates, should replace the fat calories. Dietary fiber (more than 20g/d) as well as soy protein or phyto-sterols can be helpful in reducing LDL-cholesterol by about 10%. Consumption of fruits and vegetables should also be encouraged because they provide antioxidants that have effects on other cardiovascular risk factors. Long-term education is needed to encourage the patient to comply with this type of diet. Psycho-behavioral strategies can be useful here.