Moderate increase in dietary sucrose does not influence fasting or postprandial serum lipids regardless of the presence of apolipoprotein E2 allele in healthy subjects

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether a moderate increase in dietary sucrose intake induces different serum lipid responses in normolipidemic subjects with the epsilon 2 allele compared with subjects without the epsilon 2 allele. DESIGN: Controlled, parallel study. SUBJECTS: There were 15 subjects with the apolipoprotein E (APOE)3/2 genotype and 19 subjects with the APOE 3/3 or 3/4 genotype, whose mean+/-s.d. age was 48+/-14 and 35+/-10 years, respectively. All subjects had normal glucose metabolism. INTERVENTIONS: The subjects were instructed to increase their sucrose intake by 40 g/day for 8 weeks and to decrease the intake of saturated and unsaturated fat to maintain energy balance. Dietary adherence was monitored using food records and the actual increase in sucrose intake was 39.8+/-18.4 g/day. Sixteen subjects (nine with APOE 3/2 genotype, seven with APOE 3/3 or 3/4 genotypes) participated also in an 8 h oral fat tolerance test at the beginning and at the end of the intervention. RESULTS: Body weight remained stable during the intervention. Sucrose intake did not have a significant effect on fasting concentrations of serum total and lipoprotein lipids, plasma glucose, serum insulin, squalene and non-cholesterol sterols in either genotype group. Neither were there any changes in postprandial lipid or insulin responses. CONCLUSIONS: Moderate increase in sucrose intake does not affect fasting or postprandial serum lipid responses in healthy subjects with or without the epsilon 2 allele.     

Alcohol drinking determines the effect of the APOE locus on LDL-cholesterol concentrations in men: the Framingham Offspring Study

BACKGROUND: The effect of alcohol drinking on LDL-cholesterol concentrations is unclear. The reported variability may be due to interactions between genetic factors and alcohol intake. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to examine whether variation at the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) locus modulates the association between alcohol drinking and LDL cholesterol. DESIGN: We used a cross-sectional design in a healthy population-based sample of 1014 men and 1133 women from the Framingham Offspring Study. RESULTS: In male nondrinkers (n = 197), LDL cholesterol was not significantly different across APOE allele groups [APOE*E2 (E2), APOE*E3 (E3), and APOE*E4 (E4)]. However, in male drinkers (n = 817), differences were observed (P: < 0.001); those with the E2 allele had the lowest concentrations. LDL cholesterol in men with the E2 allele was significantly lower in drinkers than in nondrinkers but was significantly higher in drinkers than in nondrinkers in men with the E4 allele. This APOE-alcohol interaction remained significant (P < 0.001) after age, body mass index, smoking status, and fat and energy intakes were controlled for. In women, the expected effect of APOE alleles on LDL cholesterol occurred in both drinkers (n = 791; P < 0.001) and nondrinkers (n = 342; P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression models showed a negative association (P < 0.05) between alcohol and LDL cholesterol in men with the E2 allele but a positive association in men with the E4 allele. No significant associations were observed in men or women with the E3 allele. CONCLUSION: In men, the effects of alcohol intake on LDL cholesterol are modulated in part by variability at the APOE locus.     

Gene-diet interactions and plasma lipoproteins: role of apolipoprotein E and habitual saturated fat intake

To test whether plasma lipoprotein levels and low density lipoprotein (LDL) particle size are modulated by an interaction between habitual saturated fat intake and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, we studied 420 randomly selected free-living Costa Ricans. The APOE allele frequencies were 0.03 for APOE2, 0.91 for APOE3, and 0.06 for APOE4. The median saturated fat intake, 11% of energy, was used to divide the population into two groups, LOW-SAT (mean intake 8.6% energy) represents those below median intake, and HIGH-SAT (mean intake 13.5%) represents those above median intake. Significant interactions between APOE genotype and diet were found for VLDL (P = 0.03) and HDL cholesterol (P = 0.02). Higher saturated fat intake was associated with higher VLDL cholesterol (+29%) and lower HDL cholesterol (-22%) in APOE2 carriers, while the opposite association was observed in APOE4 carriers (-31% for VLDL cholesterol and +10% for HDL cholesterol). Higher saturated fat intake was associated with smaller LDL particles (-2%, P < 0.05) in APOE2 carriers, and larger LDL particles (+2%, P < 0.05) in APOE4 carriers, but the gene-diet interaction was not statistically significant (P = 0.09). Higher saturated fat intake was associated with higher LDL cholesterol in all genotypes (mean +/- SEM, LOW-SAT 2.61 +/- 0.05 vs. HIGH-SAT 2.84 +/- 0.05 mmol/L, P = 0.009). These data suggest that the APOE2 allele could modulate the effect of habitual saturated fat on VLDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol in a population with an average habitual total fat intake of less than 30%.     

Gene-nutrient interactions: dietary behaviour associated with high coronary heart disease risk particularly affects serum LDL cholesterol in apolipoprotein E epsilon4-carrying free-living individuals

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype influence on the relationship between dietary risk factors for cardiovascular disease and blood serum lipid levels was investigated in 132 free-living individuals participating in the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC) study. All subjects (age 40-69) were clinically healthy and provided information on their usual diet. ApoE genotype and serum lipid concentrations were determined in all subjects. Relationships of intake of dietary constituents with serum lipid levels were compared in different genotype groups. There was a significant correlation between total serum cholesterol and intake of energy derived from total fat (r 0.195; P 0.025) and saturated fat (r 0.174; P 0.046) in the cohort as a whole. However, individuals with the ApoE epsilon3/epsilon4 genotype displayed a much stronger positive correlation between LDL cholesterol level and the percentage of energy derived from intake of saturated fat (r 0.436; P 0.043). There were no significant associations in the groups with epsilon3/epsilon3 or epsilon2/epsilon2 & epsilon2/epsilon3 genotype. A significant positive correlation between alcohol consumption and HDL cholesterol level was present in individuals bearing ApoE epsilon2 allele. These findings support current public health recommendations that saturated fat consumption should be reduced in order to reduce coronary heart disease risk. Total cholesterol concentrations were positively related to saturated fat intake in the cohort as a whole, but elevated LDL cholesterol levels associated with high saturated fat intake can be expected particularly in those individuals who combine a 'risky' dietary behaviour with the presence of the epsilon4 variant of ApoE.     

Serum fatty acids as biomarkers of fat intake predict serum cholesterol concentrations in a population-based survey of New Zealand adolescents and adults

BACKGROUND: The results of randomized controlled trials indicate that the amount and type of dietary fat are important predictors of serum cholesterol concentrations. However, the results of observational studies show weak or no association between dietary fat intake and serum cholesterol. Serum fatty acids are valid biomarkers of fat intake and may improve dietary estimates. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to ascertain whether serum fatty acids are associated with serum cholesterol concentrations in New Zealand adolescents and adults. DESIGN: The current study was a cross-sectional, national, population-based survey of 2793 New Zealanders aged > or =15 y who participated in the 1997 National Nutrition Survey. The fatty acid composition of serum cholesterol esters, phospholipids, and triacylglycerols was measured. RESULTS: A 1-SD increase in myristic acid (14:0) in serum cholesterol ester, phospholipids, and triacylglycerol corresponded with increases in serum cholesterol of 0.19, 0.13, and 0.10 mmol/L, respectively, after adjustment of the regression analysis for sex, age, body mass index, ethnicity, and smoking. The mean difference in cholesterol concentrations between persons in the highest and the lowest quintiles of serum cholesteryl-myristate was 0.48 mmol/L (P for trend < 0.001). A 1-SD increase in the proportion of linoleic acid (18:2n-6) in serum cholesterol ester, phospholipids, and triacylglycerol corresponded with decreases in serum cholesterol of 0.07, 0.07, and 0.05 mmol/L, respectively. The difference in mean serum cholesterol between the highest and lowest quintiles of cholesteryl-linoleate was 0.18 mmol/L (P for trend = 0.019). CONCLUSION: Saturated and polyunsaturated fat intakes, measured by using fatty acid biomarkers, are important predictors of serum cholesterol concentrations in New Zealand.     

Vitamin K1 intake is associated with higher bone mineral density and reduced bone resorption in early postmenopausal Scottish women: no evidence of gene-nutrient interaction with apolipoprotein E polymorphisms

BACKGROUND: Polymorphisms in the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene are associated with fracture risk, and a potential mechanism is through vitamin K transport. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the relation between dietary vitamin K(1) intake, APOE polymorphisms, and markers of bone health. DESIGN: We measured bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) in a cohort of Scottish women aged 49-54 y in 1990-1994 (baseline) and in 1997-2000 (visit 2). At visit 2, bone markers (urinary pyridinoline crosslinks and serum N-terminal propeptide of type 1 collagen) were measured, 3199 women completed a food-frequency questionnaire, and 2721 women were genotyped for APOE. RESULTS: Compared with quartile 3 (Q3) of energy-adjusted vitamin K(1) intake (mean: 116 microg/d), women in the lowest quartile (mean: 59 microg/d) had lower BMD (analysis of variance; FN, Q1: 0.831 +/- 0.122 g/cm(2); Q3: 0.850 +/- 0.126 g/cm(2); P < 0.001; LS, Q1: 1.000 +/- 0.170 g/cm(2); Q3: 1.020 +/- 0.172 g/cm(2); P = 0.009), remaining significant at the FN after adjustment for age, weight, height, menopausal status or use of hormone replacement therapy, socioeconomic status, and physical activity (P = 0.04). Vitamin K(1) intake was associated with reduced concentrations of pyridinoline crosslinks (Q1: 5.4 +/- 2.0 nmol/mmol; Q4: 5.1 +/- 1.9 nmol/mmol; P = 0.003). Carriers of the E2 allele had greater LS BMD at visit 2 and lost less BMD than did carriers of the E4 allele (E2: -0.50 +/- 1.22%/y; E4: -0.71 +/- 1.17%/y; P = 0.05). After adjustment for confounders, the P value for BMD loss (0.03 for LS and 0.04 for FN) did not reach the level of significance required for multiple testing (P = 0.012). No interaction was observed between dietary vitamin K and APOE on BMD. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin K(1) intake was associated with markers of bone health, but no interaction was observed with APOE alleles on BMD or markers of bone turnover.     

Dietary sphingolipids lower plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol and prevent liver steatosis in APOE*3Leiden mice

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of dyslipidemia and obesity resulting from excess energy intake and physical inactivity is increasing. The liver plays a pivotal role in systemic lipid homeostasis. Effective, natural dietary interventions that lower plasma lipids and promote liver health are needed. OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to determine the effect of dietary sphingolipids on plasma lipids and liver steatosis. DESIGN: APOE*3Leiden mice were fed a Western-type diet supplemented with different sphingolipids. Body cholesterol and triacylglycerol metabolism as well as hepatic lipid concentrations and lipid-related gene expression were determined. RESULTS: Dietary sphingolipids dose-dependently lowered both plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol in APOE*3Leiden mice; 1% phytosphingosine (PS) reduced plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol by 57% and 58%, respectively. PS decreased the absorption of dietary cholesterol and free fatty acids by 50% and 40%, respectively, whereas intestinal triacylglycerol lipolysis was not affected. PS increased hepatic VLDL-triacylglycerol production by 20%, whereas plasma lipolysis was not affected. PS increased the hepatic uptake of VLDL remnants by 60%. Hepatic messenger RNA concentrations indicated enhanced hepatic lipid synthesis and VLDL and LDL uptake. The net result of these changes was a strong decrease in plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol. The livers of 1% PS-fed mice were less pale, 22% lighter, and contained 61% less cholesteryl ester and 56% less triacylglycerol than livers of control mice. Furthermore, markers of liver inflammation (serum amyloid A) and liver damage (alanine aminotransferase) decreased by 74% and 79%, respectively, in PS-fed mice. CONCLUSION: Sphingolipids lower plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol and protect the liver from fat- and cholesterol-induced steatosis.     

Influence of apolipoprotein E genotype on fat-soluble plasma antioxidants in Spanish children

BACKGROUND: Apolipoprotein (apo) E is a major determinant of plasma lipid concentrations, which in turn influence the plasma concentrations of various fat-soluble vitamins. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to analyze the effect of APOE genotype on fat-soluble antioxidant concentrations in children. DESIGN: A total of 926 healthy boys and girls aged 6-8 y were selected from 4 cities in Spain. APOE genotyping was carried out, and plasma concentrations of lipids, apolipoproteins, and lipid-soluble antioxidants were measured. RESULTS: Plasma lipid concentrations were strongly influenced by APOE genotype. The mean plasma concentration of alpha-tocopherol was 21.3 micromol/L, which is one of the highest values ever reported for a population of children. Although plasma concentrations of alpha-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, lycopene, and alpha-carotene varied significantly between subjects with different APOE genotypes, most of these differences disappeared after adjustment for lipoprotein-related covariates. Nevertheless, tocopherol concentrations remained elevated in individuals with the E2/2 genotype. Multivariate regression analysis showed interactions of APOE genotype with triacylglycerol and apo B in determining alpha-tocopherol concentrations. When subjects were stratified according to major apo E groups, apo B appeared to be the most important predictor of alpha-tocopherol concentrations in all groups, whereas triacylglycerol was identified only in carriers of the E2 allele. CONCLUSIONS: The association between APOE genotype and lipophilic antioxidant concentrations is dependent mainly on the effect of the polymorphism on lipoprotein concentrations. However, triacylglycerol plays a role in determining the variability of alpha-tocopherol concentrations in E2 carriers only. This suggests that the alpha-tocopherol content in each lipoprotein class varies according to APOE genotype.     

Effects of simultaneous intakes of indigestible dextrin and diacylglycerol on lipid profiles in rats fed cholesterol diets

OBJECTIVE: Indigestible dextrin (IDex) and diacylglycerol (DG) are food components with physiologic effects on lipid metabolism. Because simultaneous intake of dietary components with similar physiologic functions may produce a beneficial decrease in risk factors for lifestyle-related diseases, we investigated the physiologic effects of simultaneous IDex and DG intake. METHODS: Five-week-old male Wistar rats were fed a cholesterol-containing diet with IDex and DG (separately and combined) for 28 d. RESULTS: IDex significantly decreased serum triacylglycerol concentration and increased the length of small intestinal villi, whereas DG produced significant decreases in serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration and significant increases in liver cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: IDex intake characteristically decreased serum triacylglycerol concentrations, although no additive or synergistic interaction between DG and IDex was observed. These results indicate that simultaneous intake of food components with similar physiologic functions do not necessarily produce additive or synergistic physiologic benefits.     

Cardiovascular disease risk factors in 2 distinct ethnic groups: Indian and Pakistani compared with American premenopausal women

BACKGROUND: Although people from the Indian subcontinent have high rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD), studies of such in Indian and Pakistani women living in the United States are lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study accounted for variability in serum lipid (total cholesterol and triacylglycerol) and lipoprotein [LDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and HDL cholesterol] concentrations in Indian and Pakistani compared with American premenopausal women in the United States. Body composition, regional fat distribution, dietary intake, and energy expenditure were compared between groups. DESIGN: The 2 groups were 47 Indian and Pakistani and 47 American women. Health was assessed via medical history, physical activity, body composition (via anthropometry and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), dietary intake (via 7-d food records), and serum lipids. RESULTS: Serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, LDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol, and the ratio of LDL to HDL cholesterol were greater (P <0.03), whereas HDL-cholesterol values were lower (P = 0.011) in Indians and Pakistanis than in Americans. Multiple regression analysis indicated that approximately 18% of the variance in total cholesterol (P = 0.0010) and LDL cholesterol (P = 0.0009) was accounted for by ethnicity, energy expenditure, and the ratio of the sum of central to the sum of peripheral skinfold thicknesses. Ethnicity, sum of central skinfold thicknesses, ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fat, and monounsaturated fat intake accounted for approximately 43% of the variance in triacylglycerol concentration (P < 0.0001). Monounsaturated fat, percentage body fat, and alcohol intake accounted for approximately 26% of variance in HDL cholesterol. Ethnicity contributed approximately 22% of the 25% overall variance in lipoprotein(a). CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that these Indian and Pakistani women are at higher CVD risk than their American counterparts, but that increasing their physical activity is likely to decrease overall and regional adiposity, thereby improving their serum lipid profiles.     

Genetic polymorphisms of tumor necrosis factor-alpha modify the association between dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids and fasting HDL-cholesterol and apo A-I concentrations

BACKGROUND: Heterogeneity in circulating lipid concentrations in response to dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may be due, in part, to genetic variations. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a proinflammatory cytokine that can induce hyperlipidemia and is known to be modulated by dietary PUFAs. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to determine whether TNF-alpha genotypes modify the association between dietary PUFA intake and serum lipid concentrations. DESIGN: The study involved 53 men and 56 women aged 42-75 y with type 2 diabetes. Dietary intakes were assessed with the use of a 3-d food record, and blood samples were collected to determine fasting serum lipids. DNA was isolated from blood for genotyping by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism for the TNF-alpha -238G-->A and -308G-->A polymorphisms. RESULTS: PUFA intake was positively associated with serum HDL cholesterol in carriers of the -238A allele (beta = 0.06 +/- 0.03 mmol/L per 1% of energy from PUFAs; P = 0.03), but negatively associated in those with the -238GG genotype (beta = -0.03 +/- 0.01, P = 0.03) (P = 0.004 for interaction). PUFA intake was inversely associated with HDL cholesterol in carriers of the -308A allele (beta = -0.07 +/- 0.02, P = 0.002), but not in those with the -308GG genotype (beta = 0.02 +/- 0.02, P = 0.13) (P = 0.001 for interaction). A stronger gene x diet interaction was observed when the polymorphisms at the 2 positions (-238/-308) were combined (P = 0.0003). Similar effects were observed for apolipoprotein A-I, but not with other dietary fatty acids and serum lipids. CONCLUSION: TNF-alpha genotypes modify the relation between dietary PUFA intake and HDL-cholesterol concentrations. These findings suggest that genetic variations affecting inflammation may explain some of the inconsistencies between previous studies relating PUFA intake and circulating HDL.     

Trends in serum total cholesterol and dietary fat intakes in New Zealand between 1989 and 2009

Objective : To describe trends in serum cholesterol and dietary fat intakes for New Zealand adults between 1989 and 2008/09. Methods : Serum total cholesterol concentrations and dietary fat intakes were analysed for 9,346 New Zealanders aged 15–98 years (52% women) who participated in three national surveys in 1989, 1997 and 2008/09. Results : Population mean serum cholesterol decreased from 6.15 mmol/L in 1989 to 5.39 mmol/L in 2008/09. Mean saturated fat intake decreased from 15.9% of energy intake in 1989 to 13.1% in 2008/09. Between 1997 and 2008/09, unsaturated fat intake increased and fat from butter and milk decreased. Older adults had the largest decrease in serum cholesterol (1.35 mmol/L). Conclusions : The decrease in serum cholesterol is substantially larger than reported for many other high‐income countries, and occurred in parallel with changes in dietary fat intakes and, for older adults, increased use of cholesterol‐lowering medications. Implication : Given the demonstrated role of reduced saturated fat intake on lowering serum cholesterol, and as population average serum cholesterol levels and saturated fat intakes exceed recommended levels, initiatives to further encourage reductions in saturated fat are imperative.     

Interleukin-6 Gene Polymorphisms,Dietary Fat Intake,Obesity and Serum Lipid Concentrations in Black and White South African Women

This study investigated interactions between dietary fat intake and IL-6 polymorphisms on obesity and serum lipids in black and white South African (SA) women. Normal-weight and obese, black and white women underwent measurements of body composition, serum lipids and dietary fat intake, and were genotyped for the IL-6 −174 G>C, IVS3 +281 G>T and IVS4 +869 A>G polymorphisms. In black women the IVS4 +869 G allele was associated with greater adiposity, and with increasing dietary fat intake adiposity increased in the IVS3 +281 GT+GG and IVS4 +869 AA or AG genotypes. In white women, with increasing omega-3 (n-3) intake and decreasing n-6:n-3 ratio, body mass index (BMI) decreased in those with the −174 C allele, IVS3 +281 T allele and IVS4 +869 AG genotype. In the white women, those with the IVS3 +281 T allele had lower triglycerides. Further, with increasing n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA); triglyceride and total cholesterol:high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (T-C:HDL-C) ratio decreased in those with the −174 C allele. In black women, with increasing total fat intake, triglycerides and T-C:HDL-C ratio increased in those with the IVS4 +869 G allele. This study is the first to show that dietary fat intake modulates the relationship between the IL-6 −174 G>C, IVS3 +281 G>T and IVS4 +869 A>G polymorphisms on obesity and serum lipids in black and white SA women.     

Polymorphism exon 1 variant at the locus of the scavenger receptor class B type I gene: influence on plasma LDL cholesterol in healthy subjects during the consumption of diets with different fat contents

BACKGROUND: The association between polymorphisms in the scavenger receptor class B type I (SRB-I) gene and variations in basal plasma concentrations of cholesterol in humans has recently been described. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine whether the exon 1 variant (G-->A) at the SRB-I gene is associated with the lipid response to the content and quality of dietary fat in healthy subjects. DESIGN: We studied 97 healthy volunteers with exon 1 polymorphism [65 homozygous for allele 1 (1/1) and 32 heterozygous for allele 2 (1/2)]. Both groups consumed 3 diets lasting 4 wk each. The first was a saturated fatty acid (SFA)-rich diet (38% fat, 20% SFA), which was followed by a carbohydrate (Cho)-rich diet (30% fat, < 10% SFA, 55% carbohydrate) or a monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), olive oil-rich diet (38% fat, 22% MUFA) according to a randomized crossover design. At the end of each dietary period, plasma concentrations of triacylglycerol and of total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol were measured. RESULTS: Carriers of the 1/2 genotype had a trend toward higher concentrations of LDL cholesterol (P < 0.11) after the SFA-rich diet than did those who were homozygous for 1/1. Carriers of the mutation showed a significantly greater (P = 0.007) decrease in LDL-cholesterol concentrations (-23%) in changing from an SFA-rich diet to a Cho-rich diet than did noncarriers of the mutation (-16%). CONCLUSION: Carriers of the minority allele, 1/2, are more susceptible to the presence of SFA in the diet because of a greater increase in LDL cholesterol.     

Changes in dietary intake account for seasonal changes in cardiovascular disease risk factors.

OBJECTIVES: (1) to compare dietary intake in summer and winter time; (2) to measure the change in body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and serum cholesterol between winter and summer; and (3) to determine the relationships between seasonal differences in dietary intake and BMI, blood pressure and serum cholesterol measurements. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Ninety-four male industrial employees were screened twice in one year, in their work place, at winter and summer time. Workers were recruited from two factories and response rate was 95%. Health-related variables, including dietary intake, blood pressure and serum cholesterol were evaluated at each season and were compared. Correlation coefficients between seasonal differences in dietary intake and in BMI, blood pressure and serum cholesterol were calculated. RESULTS: From summer to winter the mean values of BMI increase from 26.1 kg/cm2 to 26.6 (P=0.038), systolic blood pressure from 119.6 to 121.6 (P=0.025), diastolic blood pressure from 75.2 to 77.2 mmHg (P=0.001), total cholesterol from 200.8 to 208.6 mg/dL (P=0.001), LDL cholesterol from 125.2 to 134.9 (P=0.001) and HDL cholesterol from 42.7 to 44.3 (P=0.0084). Triglycerides levels decrease from 174 to 145 in the winter (P=0.03). Mean dietary intake of fat increases from 99.1 to 106.0 (P=0.0016), saturated fat from 43.6 to 46.3 (P=0.0137), polyunsaturated fat from 25.1 to 28.3 (P=0.0002), cholesterol from 462.0 to 497.9 (P=0.0313), sodium from 5778.5 to 8208.2 (P=0.0035), zinc from 11.6 to 12.3 (P=0.0001), vitamin B1 from 1.4 to 1.5 (P=0.002), vitamin D from 4.3 to 4.9 (P=0.0323) and vitamin E from 11.2 to 12.7 (P=0.0073). Significant correlation was shown between the seasonal increase in saturated fat and the increase in BMI (r=0.37), total cholesterol (r=0.21) and LDL cholesterol (r=0.29). Seasonal change in dietary cholesterol intake was significantly and positively correlated with serum total cholesterol (r=0.24) and LDL cholesterol (r=0.24). Blood pressure was not associated with nutritional intake variables. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary intake in summer and winter is different as well as blood pressure, BMI and serum cholesterol. The seasonal increase in fat and cholesterol intake at winter time is associated with changes in BMI and serum cholesterol.     

Combined effects of dietary fat and birth weight on serum cholesterol concentrations: the Hertfordshire Cohort Study

BACKGROUND: Blood cholesterol responses to the manipulation of dietary fat vary widely between persons. Although epidemiologic evidence suggests that prenatal growth and nutrition influence adult cholesterol homeostasis, whether prenatal growth modifies the association between dietary fat intake and serum cholesterol concentration in adults is unknown. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to examine the relation between fat intake and serum cholesterol concentrations in men and women whose birth weights were known. DESIGN: We studied a cohort of men and women aged 59-71 y. Diet was assessed with a food-frequency questionnaire. Total, HDL-, and LDL-cholesterol concentrations and the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol were measured in fasting blood samples from 574 men and 562 women who did not have coronary heart disease. RESULTS: Total and saturated fat intakes were not associated with serum cholesterol concentrations in men or women. However, subdivision by birth weight showed associations in men but not in women. High intakes of total and saturated fat were associated with reduced HDL-cholesterol concentrations in men with birth weights < or =3.2 kg (7 lb) but not in men with higher birth weights. Similar effects on the HDL-to-LDL cholesterol ratio were observed (P for interaction = 0.02 for total fat and 0.01 for saturated fat). When 32 men taking cholesterol-lowering medication were excluded, the interactions were strengthened (P = 0.008 and 0.006, respectively). CONCLUSION: The adverse effects of high intakes of total and saturated fat on serum cholesterol concentrations in men may be confined to those with lower birth weights.     

Apolipoprotein E polymorphism modifies the alcohol-HDL association observed in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study

BACKGROUND: The apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) allele epsilon4 is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The presence of the epsilon4 allele has been associated with lower concentrations of HDL cholesterol, but it is not known whether the epsilon4 allele modifies the association between alcohol consumption and HDL-cholesterol concentrations. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to assess whether the epsilon4 allele modifies the association between alcohol consumption and HDL-cholesterol concentrations. DESIGN: In a cross-sectional design, we studied 670 men and women aged 26-78 y who participated in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study to assess whether the epsilon4 allele of the gene APOE modifies the association between alcohol consumption and HDL-cholesterol concentrations. Alcohol data were self-reported, and we used multivariate, generalized estimating equations to assess interactions. RESULTS: In a model with adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, exercise, waist-hip ratio, TV viewing, and study site, there was a significant effect of the interaction between the epsilon4 allele and alcohol consumption on HDL cholesterol (P=0.0001). In the absence of the epsilon4 allele, multivariate adjusted means of HDL were 1.24, 1.36, and 1.54 mmol/L among subjects who never drank and those who currently drink 0.1-12 and >12 g alcohol/d, respectively; in the presence of the epsilon4 allele, the corresponding values were 1.19, 1.27, and 1.25 mmol/L. CONCLUSION: Our data show a significant effect of the interaction between the epsilon4 allele and alcohol consumption on HDL. The increase in HDL associated with alcohol appears to be stronger in subjects without the epsilon4 allele than in those with the epsilon4 allele.     

Dietary fat type and cholesterol quantity interact to affect cholesterol metabolism in guinea pigs.

Interactions of dietary fat saturation with dietary cholesterol on cholesterol homeostasis in guinea pigs were studied by feeding 15% (wt/wt) fat diets containing lard, olive oil or corn oil, with 0.00, 0.08, 0.17 or 0.33% added cholesterol. Plasma total and LDL cholesterol concentrations significantly increased with increasing dietary cholesterol, with pronounced increments occurring at the pharmacologic (0.33%) level. An interaction between fat type and dietary cholesterol was seen for HDL cholesterol concentrations. Saturated fat and the pharmacologic level of dietary cholesterol increased plasma HDL concentrations, whereas polyunsaturated fat minimized the dietary cholesterol-mediated increase. Interactions were also observed for hepatic cholesterol: dietary cholesterol increased both free and esterified hepatic cholesterol concentrations in all groups fed all the dietary fats, and fat type influenced the extent of hepatic cholesterol accumulation. Lard-fed animals accumulated the least hepatic cholesterol over the range of dietary cholesterol intakes. Dietary cholesterol suppressed hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity, with maximal suppression at all levels of cholesterol intake. Dietary cholesterol had a greater effect on plasma and hepatic cholesterol concentrations and hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity than did fat type. The data indicated limited interactions of fat type and cholesterol quantity in altering mechanisms regulating plasma cholesterol homeostasis.     

Regular peanut consumption improves plasma lipid levels in healthy Ghanaians

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the daily intake of 2,092 kJ (500 kcal) from peanuts will improve the lipid profiles and diet quality of healthy Ghanaians. DESIGN: A 30-week, randomized, cross-over trial study was conducted with healthy adults. METHOD: There were three treatment arms: Treatment 1 (T1), subjects were provided 2,092 kJ/day (500 kcal/day) peanuts to incorporate into their daily diet for 8 weeks at any time and in any form they chose; Treatment 2 (T2), subjects were provided 2,092 kJ/day (500 kcal/day) peanuts and were instructed to consume them in addition to their customary daily diet for 3 weeks; Treatment 3 (T3), substitution of 2,092 kJ/day fat, with energy from peanuts. Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and triglyceride were measured at baseline, week 4 and week 8 (T1 and T3) or at baseline and week 3 (T2). Three-day dietary intake records were kept during each treatment. RESULTS: There was significant decrease in total cholesterol (7.2%) and triacylglycerol (20.0%) after T1. However, individually, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels did not change significantly. Total fat intake increased by 9%, due to elevations of monounsaturated fatty acid of 60% and polyunsaturated fatty acid of 50%. Similar non-significant trends were observed during T2 and T3. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that regular consumption of peanuts lowers the total cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations among healthy Ghanaians. Regular consumption of peanuts should therefore be encouraged.     

Dietary fat intake in healthy adolescents: inverse relationships between the estimated intake of saturated fatty acids and serum cholesterol

The objective of the present study was to describe the intake of dietary fatty acids among healthy 15-year-old boys and girls and to relate the intake of specific fatty acids and the fatty acid composition of the serum cholesterol esters to serum lipid, apolipoprotein (Apo) and insulin concentrations respectively. Fifty-two girls and forty-two boys were randomly selected from the official population register. Unexpectedly, significant inverse associations were found between the dietary content of saturated fatty acids with a chain length of four to fifteen C atoms, mainly derived from milk fat, as well as the corresponding fatty acids in the serum cholesterol esters, on the one hand and the serum concentrations of cholesterol and ApoB on the other. The estimated dietary intake of 4:0-10:0, 12:0 and 14:0 respectively, were all significantly inversely related to the serum cholesterol (r -0.32, r -0.31, r -0.30, all and ApoB (r -0.42, r -0.42, and r -0.40, all concentrations in girls and 12:0 to the ApoB concentration (r -0.55, in boys. The proportions of 12:0 and 15:0 in the serum cholesterol esters were negatively correlated with the serum cholesterol concentrations in both girls (r -0.34, r -0.32, and boys (r -0.53, r -0.32, and with the ApoB concentrations among boys (r -0.61, r -0.43, It is conceivable that milk fat contains or is associated with some component in the diet, or some other characteristics of the food intake, which counterbalances the expected positive relationships between saturated fat intake and lipid levels.