Diet and Coronary Artery Disease: Part I: Healthy Macronutrients

Abstract

Diet is a major modifiable factor in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. These diseases impart the greatest non-communicable diseases burden globally. They are the leading cause of deaths in the world and account for 17.9 million deaths annually. This represents 31% of the total mortality. In 2016, 85% of the cardiovascular deaths in the world were due to ischemic heart disease and stroke. Premature mortality due to cardiovascular diseases is one of the main obstacles in increasing the human lifespan. Coronary artery disease is a major cardiovascular disease. It is caused by arterial atherosclerosis. This leads to progressive narrowing of the coronary arteries limiting blood flow to the myocardium. Plaque rupture may cause sudden blockage to the blood flow resulting in myocardial death. This can be associated with malignant ventricular arrhythmias and lead to death. Several lifestyle factors can prevent, reduce the progression, or even regress atherosclerosis. Diet is a major modifiable factor. A healthy diet can lead to a lower risk of coronary artery disease. It can also stem the progression and improve outcomes in those with established coronary artery disease. The role of diet in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease is discussed in this 3-part manuscript. Part I looks at the healthier choices.