Diet has a vital influence on health & longevity. Scientific studies have associated diet with 5 of the top 10 causes of death (coronary heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and atherosclerosis).
It is clear that what people eat & how people eat, contributes in a substantial way to the development of these diseases and that modification of food choices can contribute to the prevention of these diseases.
One focus of dietary modification should be a reduction in total fat intake because of the role that fat plays in the development of several chronic diseases. High fat diets contribute to obesity since fat is a concentrated source of energy, and often leads to a high calorie intake. High fat diets can lead directly to an increase in blood cholesterol levels leading to high incidence of cardio-vascular disease: heart attacks & strokes, and have been associated with increased risk for several types of cancers.
Diets including generous amounts of fruits and vegetables are recommended because these foods are high in fiber and relatively low in calories and fat. A diet high in fruits and vegetables usually leads to a reduction in total calories and fat, which enhances weight management. A high fiber intake has beneficial effects on blood cholesterol and blood sugar, and a diet plan including at least 8 servings of fruit or vegetable and 2-3 servings of low fat dairy products has been shown to reduce blood pressure.
Weight loss is an important part of the treatment of elevated blood cholesterol, in addition to a diet low in saturated fat (animal fats) and cholesterol. High fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are also an important part of a cholesterol lowering diet.
