Effects of a healthy Nordic diet on cardiovascular risk factors in hypercholesterolaemic subjects: a randomized controlled trial (NORDIET). Health effect of the New Nordic Diet in adults with increased waist circumference: a 6-mo randomized controlled trial. [Food intake of Danes and cardiac risk factors]. Low-fat, high-fiber diet favorably affects several independent risk markers of ischemic heart disease: observations on blood lipids, coagulation, and fibrinolysis from a trial of middle-aged Danes. Persistence of Hypertriglyceridemic Effect of Low-Fat High-Carbohydrate Diets in NIDDM Patients Influence of a healthy Nordic diet on serum fatty acid composition and associations with blood lipoproteins – results from the NORDIET study Effects of DASH diet on lipid profiles and biomarkers of oxidative stress in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. Long-term adherence to the New Nordic Diet and the effects on body weight, anthropometry and blood pressure: a 12-month follow-up study Food patterns, inflammation markers and incidence of cardiovascular disease: the Malmö Diet and Cancer study. Effects of a Mediterranean-inspired diet on blood lipids, vascular function and oxidative stress in healthy subjects. Low-fat dietary pattern and risk of cardiovascular disease: the Women's Health Initiative Randomized Controlled Dietary Modification Trial. Adherence to a Healthy Nordic Food Index Is Associated with a Lower Risk of Type-2 Diabetes—The Danish Diet, Cancer and Health Cohort Study Effects of varying carbohydrate content of diet in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Effects of protein, monounsaturated fat, and carbohydrate intake on blood pressure and serum lipids: results of the OmniHeart randomized trial. Characteristics of the diet patterns tested in the optimal macronutrient intake trial to prevent heart disease (OmniHeart): options for a heart-healthy diet. Effect of Low-Energy-Dense Diet Rich in Multiple Functional Foods on Weight-Loss Maintenance, Inflammation, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative effects of three popular diets on lipids, endothelial function, and C-reactive protein during weight maintenance.
OBJECTIVE the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a healthy Nordic diet ( ND ) on cardiovascular risk factors . DESIGN AND SUBJECTS in a r and omized controlled trial ( NORDIET ) conducted in Sweden , 88 mildly hypercholesterolaemic subjects were r and omly assigned to an ad libitum ND or control diet ( subjects ' usual Western diet ) for 6 weeks . Participants in the ND group were provided with all meals and foods . Primary outcome measurements were low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol , and secondary outcomes were blood pressure ( BP ) and insulin sensitivity ( fasting insulin and homeostatic model assessment -insulin resistance ) . The ND was rich in high-fibre plant foods , fruits , berries , vegetables , whole grains , rapeseed oil , nuts , fish and low-fat milk products , but low in salt , added sugars and saturated fats . RESULTS the ND contained 27 % , 52 % , 19 % and 2 % of energy from fat , carbohydrate , protein and alcohol , respectively . In total , 86 of 88 subjects r and omly assigned to diet completed the study . Compared with controls , there was a decrease in plasma cholesterol ( -16 % , P < 0.001 ) , LDL cholesterol ( -21 % , P < 0.001 ) , high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) cholesterol ( -5 % , P < 0.01 ) , LDL/HDL ( -14 % , P < 0.01 ) and apolipoprotein (apo)B/apoA1 ( -1 % , P < 0.05 ) in the ND group . The ND reduced insulin ( -9 % , P = 0.01 ) and systolic BP by -6.6 ± 13.2 mmHg ( -5 % , P < 0.05 ) compared with the control diet . Despite the ad libitum nature of the ND , body weight decreased after 6 weeks in the ND compared with the control group ( -4 % , P < 0.001 ) . After adjustment for weight change , the significant differences between groups remained for blood lipids , but not for insulin sensitivity or BP . There were no significant differences in diastolic BP or triglyceride or glucose concentrations . CONCLUSIONS a healthy ND improves blood lipid profile and insulin sensitivity and lowers blood pressure at clinical ly relevant levels in hypercholesterolaemic subjects BACKGROUND The regional Mediterranean Diet has been associated with lower risk of disease . OBJECTIVE We tested the health effects of the New Nordic Diet ( NND ) , which is a gastronomically driven regional , organic , and environmentally friendly diet , in a carefully controlled but free-living setting . DESIGN A total of 181 central ly obese men and women , with a mean ( range ) age of 42 y ( 20 - 66 y ) , body mass index ( in kg/m(2 ) ) of 30.2 ( 22.6 - 47.3 ) , and waist circumference of 100 cm ( 80 - 138 cm ) were r and omly assigned to receive either the NND ( high in fruit , vegetables , whole grains , and fish ) or an average Danish diet ( ADD ) for 26 wk . Participants received cookbooks and all foods ad libitum and free of charge by using a shop model . The primary endpoint was the weight change analyzed by both completer and intention-to-treat analyses . RESULTS A total of 147 subjects [ 81 % ( NND 81 % ; ADD 82 % ) ] completed the intervention . A high dietary compliance was achieved , with significant differences in dietary intakes between groups . The mean ( ±SEM ) weight change was -4.7 ± 0.5 kg for the NND compared with -1.5 ± 0.5 kg for the ADD ( adjusted difference : -3.2 kg ; 95 % CI : -4.6 , -1.8 kg ; P < 0.001 ) for the completer analysis , and the difference was -3.0 kg ( 95 % CI : -4.0 , -2.1 kg ) for the intention-to-treat analysis . The NND produced greater reductions in systolic blood pressure ( adjusted difference : -5.1 mm Hg ; 95 % CI : -8.2 , -2.1 mm Hg ) and diastolic blood pressure ( adjusted difference : -3.2 mm Hg ; 95 % CI : -5.7 , -0.8 mm Hg ) than did the ADD . CONCLUSION An ad libitum NND produces weight loss and blood pressure reduction in central ly obese individuals . This trial was registered at www . clinical trials.gov as NCT01195610 We served a low-fat ( 28 % of energy ) high-fibre ( 3.3 g/MJ ) diet according to Nordic Nutrition Recommendations ( REC diet ) , and a high-fat diet ( 39 % of energy ) corresponding to the average Danish diet ( DANE diet ) to 21 healthy middle-aged individuals in a two times two weeks cross-over study . The REC diet result ed in lower serum concentrations of low density lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol ( medians : 2.77 vs 3.04 mmol/l , p < 0.001 ) , and high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) cholesterol ( 1.08 vs 1.24 mmol/l , p < 0.001 ) , and higher fasting triglycerides ( 1.11 vs 0.86 mmol/l , p = 0.04 ) than the DANE diet . Furthermore , the REC diet lowered plasma factor VII coagulant activity ( FVIIc ) ( 88 vs 96 % , p = 0.002 ) and raised plasma fibrinolytic activity . Our observations indicate that a low-fat high-fibre diet may not only reduce the atherogenic , but also the thrombogenic tendency of an individual compared with a diet corresponding to the average Danish diet We served a low-fat ( 28 % of energy ) , high-fiber ( 3.3 g/MJ ) diet according to Nordic nutrition recommendations ( Rec diet ) , and a high-fat diet ( 39 % of energy ) corresponding to the average Danish diet ( Dane diet ) for periods of 2 wk in a r and omized crossover study of 21 healthy middle-aged individuals . The Rec diet result ed in lower serum concentrations of low-density-lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol ( medians : 2.77 vs 3.04 mmol/L , P < 0.001 ) and high-density-lipoprotein ( HDL ) cholesterol ( 1.08 vs 1.24 mmol/L , P < 0.001 ) , and higher fasting triglycerides ( 1.11 vs 0.86 mmol/L , P = 0.04 ) than did the Dane diet . Furthermore , the Rec diet lowered plasma factor VII coagulant activity ( FVIIc ) ( 88 % vs 96 % , P = 0.002 ) and raised plasma fibrinolytic activity . Our observations indicate that a low-fat , high-fiber diet may not only reduce the atherogenic but also the thrombogenic tendency of an individual compared with a diet corresponding to the average Danish diet Although low-fat high-carbohydrate diets are recommended for patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus ( NIDDM ) in an effort to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease ( CAD ) , the results of short-term studies have shown that these diets can lead to changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism associated with an increased risk of CAD . This study has extended these earlier observations by determining the metabolic effects of such diets over a longer period in these patients . The comparison diets contained either 40 or 60 % of the total calories as carbohydrates , with reciprocal changes in fat content from 40 to 20 % consumed in r and om order for 6 wk in a crossover experimental design . The ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fat and the total cholesterol intake were held constant in the two diets . Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were significantly ( P < .001 ) elevated throughout the day when patients consumed the 60 % carbohydrate diet , and 24-h urinary glucose excretion more than doubled ( 0.8 vs. 1.8 mol/24 h ) . Fasting plasma total and very-low-density lipoprotein ( VLDL ) triglyceride ( TG ) concentrations increased by 30 % ( P < .001 ) after 1 wk on the 60 % carbohydrate diet , and the magnitude of carbohydrate-induced hypertriglyceridemia persisted unchanged throughout the 6-wk study period . Total plasma cholesterol concentrations were similar after both diets . However , VLDL cholesterol ( VLDL-chol ) was significantly increased , whereas both low-density lipoprotein ( LDL- ) and high-density lipoprotein ( HDL- ) chol concentrations were significantly decreasedafter consumption of the 60 % carbohydrate diet . Consequently , neither total-chol-to-HDL-chol nor LDL-chol-to-HDL-chol ratios changed . The results of this study indicate that high-carbohydrate diets lead to several changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with NIDDM that could lead to an increased risk of CAD , and these effects persist for > 6 wk . Given these results , it seems reasonable to suggest that the routine recommendation of low-fat high-carbohydrate diets for patients with NIDDM be reconsidered Background The fatty acid ( FA ) composition of serum lipids is related to the quality of dietary fat intake . Objective To investigate the effects of a  healthy Nordic diet ( ND ) on the FA composition of serum cholesterol esters ( CE-FA ) and assess the associations between changes in the serum CE-FA composition and blood lipoproteins during a controlled dietary intervention . Design The NORDIET trial was a 6-week r and omised , controlled , parallel-group dietary intervention study that included 86 adults ( 53±8 years ) with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( LDL-C ) . Serum CE-FA composition was measured using gas chromatography . Diet history interviews were conducted , and daily intake was assessed using checklists . Results Food and nutrient intake data indicated that there was a reduction in the intake of fat from dairy and meat products and an increase in the consumption of fatty fish with the ND . The levels of saturated fatty acids in cholesterol esters ( CE-SFA ) 14:0 , 15:0 , and 18:0 , but not 16:0 , showed a significant decrease after intake of ND compared to the control diet ( p<0.01 ) . Also , a significant increase in serum 22:6n – 3 was observed compared with the control diet ( p<0.01 ) . The changes in CE-SFA 14:0 , 15:0 , and 18:0 correlated positively with changes in LDL-C , HDL-C , LDL-C/HDL-C , ApoA1 , and ApoB ( p<0.01 ) , respectively , whereas the changes in polyunsaturated fatty acids in cholesterol esters ( CE-PUFA ) 22:6n – 3 were negatively correlated with changes in the corresponding serum lipids . Conclusions The decreased intake of saturated fat and increased intake of n-3 PUFA in a  healthy ND is partly reflected by changes in the serum CE-FA composition , which are associated with an improved serum lipoprotein pattern OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension ( DASH ) diet on lipid profiles and biomarkers of oxidative stress in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) . METHODS This r and omized controlled clinical trial was conducted with 48 women diagnosed with PCOS . The women were r and omly assigned to consume either the control ( n = 24 ) or DASH diet ( n = 24 ) for 8 wk . Both diets were design ed to be calorie-restricted . Both diets consisted of 52 % carbohydrates , 18 % proteins , and 30 % total fats . The DASH diet was design ed to be rich in fruits , vegetables , whole grains , and low-fat dairy products and to be low in saturated fats , cholesterol , and refined grains . Fasting blood sample s were taken at baseline and after 8-wk intervention to measure lipid profiles and biomarkers of oxidative stress including plasma total antioxidant capacity ( TAC ) and total glutathione ( GSH ) . RESULTS Adherence to the DASH diet , compared with the control diet , result ed in a significant decrease in weight ( -4.4 versus -1.5 kg ; P < 0.001 ) and body mass index ( -1.7 versus -0.6 kg/m(2 ) ; P < 0.001 ) , decreased serum triglycerides ( -10.0 versus + 19.2 mg/dL ; P interaction = 0.005 ) and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels ( -2.0 versus + 3.9 mg/dL ; P interaction = 0.005 ) . Increased concentrations of TAC ( + 98.6 versus -174.8 mmol/L ; P interaction < 0.001 ) and GSH ( + 66.4 versus -155.6 μmol/L ; P interaction = 0.005 ) also were found in the DASH group compared with the control group . CONCLUSION Consumption of DASH diet for 8 wk led to a significant reduction in serum insulin , triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and a significant increase in TAC and GSH levels Abstract Purpose The New Nordic Diet ( NND ) has induced weight loss in a 26-week controlled intervention . We aim to investigate whether high compliance and satisfaction can be maintained after the active intervention is discontinued thereby maintaining the health effects . Methods After 26 weeks of intervention with NND or Average Danish Diet ( ADD ) , 147 participants ( mean age 43 years and mean BMI 29.1 kg/m2 ) were followed for further 52 weeks . All participants were encouraged to follow NND but without further guidance . The study is registered with Clinical Trials.gov , study i d NCT01195610 . Results One hundred and ten participants ( 75 % ) completed the follow-up . Among participants previously r and omised to NND ( NND group ) , dietary compliance and satisfaction decreased from 4.3 to 3.0 and from 4.8 to 4.0 , respectively ( both p < 0.0001 ) ( 1–5 point scale ) . Among those originally r and omised to ADD ( ADD group ) , satisfaction with NND was significantly higher than with ADD during follow-up ( 3.3 vs. 2.5 , p = 0.026 ) . Weight losses during intervention of −6.2 kg and −3.0 kg were followed by regains of 4.6 kg ( SE 0.5 ) and 1.1 kg ( SE 0.7 ) for the NND group and ADD group , respectively [ adjusted difference ; mean ( 95 % CI ) : 1.8 kg ( 0.1–3.4 ) , p = 0.041 ] . Across diet groups , every 1 score higher in compliance with NND was associated with 0.90 kg less body weight regain ( p = 0.026 ) and those who increased physical activity regained 3.4 kg less compared to those who did not ( p < 0.0001 ) . Conclusions NND  provides higher satisfaction , and body weight regain is reduced with higher compliance with NND and increased physical activity OBJECTIVES To examine the associations between food patterns constructed using cluster analysis and markers of systemic and vascular inflammation , and incident cardiovascular disease ( CVD ) after 13 years of follow-up . DESIGN Population -based , prospect i ve cohort study . SETTING AND SUBJECTS Cluster analysis identified six food patterns from 43 food group variables among 4999 subjects , aged 45 - 68 years , who participated in the Malmö Diet and Cancer cardiovascular programme between 1991 and 1994 .  Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2 ) ( Lp-PLA(2 ) ) , C-reactive protein concentration and white blood cell ( WBC ) count were measured using blood sample s at baseline . Incidence of CVD ( coronary events and ischaemic stroke ) was monitored over 13 years of follow-up . RESULTS The fibre-rich bread pattern was associated with favourable effects on WBC count in women , and the low-fat and high-fibre pattern with favourable effects on Lp-PLA(2 ) mass in women , and on Lp-PLA(2 ) activity in men . However , the milk fat and sweets and cakes patterns were both associated with adverse effects ; the former on WBC count in women and on Lp-PLA(2 ) mass in men , and the latter on WBC count and Lp-PLA(2 ) mass in women . The milk fat and sweets and cakes patterns were associated with increased CVD risk in women . CONCLUSIONS The results of this study support the present Nordic dietary recommendations indicating that diets rich in high-fibre , low-fat and low-sugar foods are favourably associated with markers of inflammation and , potentially , with CVD risk Mediterranean-inspired diets have been shown to decrease cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolaemia , who frequently exhibit endothelial dysfunction . The aims of the present study are to improve endothelial function by dietary intervention in healthy subjects with lipid levels representative of a Western population . Twenty-two healthy subjects ( mean total cholesterol , 5.6 mmol/l ) were given a Mediterranean-inspired diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and sterol esters , but low in saturated fat , or an ordinary Swedish diet , for 4 weeks in a r and omized cross-over study . The composition of the diets were : in the Swedish diet , 2090 kcal ( where 1 kcal=4.184 kJ ; 48 % of energy from carbohydrate , 15 % from protein and 36 % from fat ) and 19 g of fibre ; in the Mediterranean-inspired diet , 1869 kcal ( 48 % of energy from carbohydrate , 16 % from protein , 34 % from fat ) and 40 g of fibre . After each dietary period , fasting blood lipids , insulin and glucose levels , as well as apo B ( apolipoprotein B ) and LDL ( low-density lipoprotein ) particle size , were analysed . Endothelial-dependent and -independent vasodilation was measured invasively by venous occlusion plethysmography , and arterial distensibility was assessed by echocardiography tracking . Fibrinolytic capacity across the forearm , as well as oxidative stress measured through urinary F(2)-isoprostane , were evaluated . Total , LDL- and apo B-cholesterol and triacylglycerol ( triglyceride ) concentrations were decreased by 17 % , 22 % , 16 % and 17 % respectively , after the Mediterranean-inspired diet compared with the Swedish diet ( P < 0.05 for all ) . However , no differences in plasma concentrations of insulin and glucose and LDL particle size , endothelial function , arterial distensibility , fibrinolytic capacity or oxidative stress were detected . Treatment for 4 weeks with a Mediterranean-inspired diet decreased blood lipids in healthy individuals with a low-risk profile for cardiovascular disease . This beneficial effect was not mirrored in vascular function or oxidative stress evaluation CONTEXT Multiple epidemiologic studies and some trials have linked diet with cardiovascular disease ( CVD ) prevention , but long-term intervention data are needed . OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that a dietary intervention , intended to be low in fat and high in vegetables , fruits , and grains to reduce cancer , would reduce CVD risk . DESIGN , SETTING , AND PARTICIPANTS R and omized controlled trial of 48,835 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79 years , of diverse background s and ethnicities , who participated in the Women 's Health Initiative Dietary Modification Trial . Women were r and omly assigned to an intervention ( 19,541 [ 40 % ] ) or comparison group ( 29,294 [ 60 % ] ) in a free-living setting . Study enrollment occurred between 1993 and 1998 in 40 US clinical centers ; mean follow-up in this analysis was 8.1 years . INTERVENTION Intensive behavior modification in group and individual sessions design ed to reduce total fat intake to 20 % of calories and increase intakes of vegetables/fruits to 5 servings/d and grains to at least 6 servings/d . The comparison group received diet-related education material s. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fatal and nonfatal coronary heart disease ( CHD ) , fatal and nonfatal stroke , and CVD ( composite of CHD and stroke ) . RESULTS By year 6 , mean fat intake decreased by 8.2 % of energy intake in the intervention vs the comparison group , with small decreases in saturated ( 2.9 % ) , monounsaturated ( 3.3 % ) , and polyunsaturated ( 1.5 % ) fat ; increases occurred in intakes of vegetables/fruits ( 1.1 servings/d ) and grains ( 0.5 serving/d ) . Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels , diastolic blood pressure , and factor VIIc levels were significantly reduced by 3.55 mg/dL , 0.31 mm Hg , and 4.29 % , respectively ; levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol , triglycerides , glucose , and insulin did not significantly differ in the intervention vs comparison groups . The numbers who developed CHD , stroke , and CVD ( annualized incidence rates ) were 1000 ( 0.63 % ) , 434 ( 0.28 % ) , and 1357 ( 0.86 % ) in the intervention and 1549 ( 0.65 % ) , 642 ( 0.27 % ) , and 2088 ( 0.88 % ) in the comparison group . The diet had no significant effects on incidence of CHD ( hazard ratio [ HR ] , 0.97 ; 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] , 0.90 - 1.06 ) , stroke ( HR , 1.02 ; 95 % CI , 0.90 - 1.15 ) , or CVD ( HR , 0.98 ; 95 % CI , 0.92 - 1.05 ) . Excluding participants with baseline CVD ( 3.4 % ) , the HRs ( 95 % CIs ) for CHD and stroke were 0.94 ( 0.86 - 1.02 ) and 1.02 ( 0.90 - 1.17 ) , respectively . Trends toward greater reductions in CHD risk were observed in those with lower intakes of saturated fat or trans fat or higher intakes of vegetables/fruits . CONCLUSIONS Over a mean of 8.1 years , a dietary intervention that reduced total fat intake and increased intakes of vegetables , fruits , and grains did not significantly reduce the risk of CHD , stroke , or CVD  in postmenopausal women and achieved only modest effects on CVD risk factors , suggesting that more focused diet and lifestyle interventions may be needed to improve risk factors and reduce CVD risk . CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION Clinical Trials.gov Identifier : NCT00000611 Background : Type-2 diabetes ( T2D ) prevalence is rapidly increasing worldwide . Lifestyle factors , in particular obesity , diet , and physical activity play a significant role in the etiology of the disease . Of dietary patterns , particularly the Mediterranean diet has been studied , and generally a protective association has been identified . However , other regional diets are less explored . Objective : The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between adherence to a healthy Nordic food index and the risk of T2D . The index consists of six food items : fish , cabbage , rye bread , oatmeal , apples and pears , and root vegetables . Methods : Data was obtained from a prospect i ve cohort study of 57,053 Danish men and women aged 50–64 years , at baseline , of whom 7366 developed T2D ( median follow-up : 15.3 years ) . The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the association between the healthy Nordic food index and risk of T2D , adjusted for potential confounders . Results : Greater adherence to the  healthy Nordic food index was significantly associated with lower risk of T2D after adjusting for potential confounders . An index score of 5−6 points ( high adherence ) was associated with a statistically significantly 25 % lower T2D risk in women ( HR : 0.75 , 95%CI : 0.61–0.92 ) and 38 % in men ( HR : 0.62 ; 95%CI : 0.53–0.71 ) compared to those with an index score of 0 points ( poor adherence ) . Conclusion : Adherence to a healthy Nordic food index was found to be inversely associated with risk of T2D , suggesting that regional diets other than the Mediterranean may also be recommended for prevention of T2D OBJECTIVE To study effects of variation in carbohydrate content of diet on glycemia and plasma lipoproteins in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus ( NIDDM ) . DESIGN A four-center r and omized crossover trial . SETTING Outpatient and inpatient evaluation in metabolic units . PATIENTS Forty-two NIDDM patients receiving glipizide therapy .  INTERVENTIONS A high-carbohydrate diet containing 55 % of the total energy as carbohydrates and 30 % as fats was compared with a high-monounsaturated-fat diet containing 40 % carbohydrates and 45 % fats . The amounts of saturated fats , polyunsaturated fats , cholesterol , sucrose , and protein were similar . The study diets , prepared in metabolic kitchens , were provided as the sole nutrients to subjects for 6 weeks each . To assess longer-term effects , a subgroup of 21 patients continued the diet they received second for an additional 8 weeks . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fasting plasma glucose , insulin , lipoproteins , and glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations . Twenty-four-hour profiles of glucose , insulin , and triglyceride levels . RESULTS The site of study as well as the diet order did not affect the results . Compared with the high-monounsaturated-fat diet , the high-carbohydrate diet increased fasting plasma triglyceride levels and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by 24 % ( P < .0001 ) and 23 % ( P = .0001 ) , respectively , and increased daylong plasma triglyceride , glucose , and insulin values by 10 % ( P = .03 ) , 12 % ( P < .0001 ) , and 9 % ( P = .02 ) , respectively . Plasma total cholesterol , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol , and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels remained unchanged . The effects of both diets on plasma glucose , insulin , and triglyceride levels persisted for 14 weeks . CONCLUSIONS In NIDDM patients , high-carbohydrate diets compared with high-monounsaturated-fat diets caused persistent deterioration of glycemic control and accentuation of hyperinsulinemia , as well as increased plasma triglyceride and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels , which may not be desirable CONTEXT Reduced intake of saturated fat is widely recommended for prevention of cardiovascular disease . The type of macronutrient that should replace saturated fat remains uncertain . OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of 3 healthful diets , each with reduced saturated fat intake , on blood pressure and serum lipids . DESIGN , SETTING , AND PARTICIPANTS R and omized , 3-period , crossover feeding study ( April 2003 to June 2005 ) conducted in Baltimore , Md , and Boston , Mass. Participants were 164 adults with prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension . Each feeding period lasted 6 weeks and body weight was kept constant . INTERVENTIONS A diet rich in carbohydrates ; a diet rich in protein , about half from plant sources ; and a diet rich in unsaturated fat , predominantly monounsaturated fat . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol . RESULTS Blood pressure , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol , and estimated coronary heart disease risk were lower on each diet compared with baseline . Compared with the carbohydrate diet , the protein diet further decreased mean systolic blood pressure by 1.4 mm Hg ( P = .002 ) and by 3.5 mm Hg ( P = .006 ) among those with hypertension and decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 3.3 mg/dL ( 0.09 mmol/L ; P = .01 ) , high-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 1.3 mg/dL ( 0.03 mmol/L ; P = .02 ) , and triglycerides by 15.7 mg/dL ( 0.18 mmol/L ; P<.001 ) . Compared with the carbohydrate diet , the unsaturated fat diet decreased systolic blood pressure by 1.3 mm Hg ( P = .005 ) and by 2.9 mm Hg among those with hypertension ( P = .02 ) , had no significant effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol , increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 1.1 mg/dL ( 0.03 mmol/L ; P = .03 ) , and lowered triglycerides by 9.6 mg/dL ( 0.11 mmol/L ; P = .02 ) . Compared with the carbohydrate diet , estimated 10-year coronary heart disease risk was lower and similar on the protein and unsaturated fat diets . CONCLUSION In the setting of a healthful diet , partial substitution of carbohydrate with either protein or monounsaturated fat can further lower blood pressure , improve lipid levels , and reduce estimated cardiovascular risk . Clinical Trials Registration Clinical Trials.gov Identifier : NCT00051350 OBJECTIVE To describe the nutrient and food composition of the diets tested in the Optimal Macronutrient Intake Trial to Prevent Heart Disease ( OmniHeart ) . DESIGN Two center , r and omized , three-period crossover , controlled feeding trial that tested the effects of three healthful diet patterns on blood pressure , serum lipid levels , and estimated cardiovascular risk . SUBJECTS/ SETTING One hundred sixty-four participants with prehypertension and hypertension . During the 19 weeks of feeding , participants were required to consume only food prepared as part of the trial . INTERVENTION The OmniHeart trial studied three diet patterns that differed in macronutrient composition : a carbohydrate-rich diet similar to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet ( 58 % carbohydrate , 15 % protein , and 27 % fat ) , a higher protein diet that had 10 % more protein and 10 % less carbohydrate ( 48 % carbohydrate , 25 % protein , and 27 % fat ) , and a higher unsaturated fat diet that had 10 % more unsaturated fat and 10 % less carbohydrate ( 48 % carbohydrate , 15 % protein , and 37 % fat ) . Each diet contained 6 % saturated fat and 100 to 200 mg cholesterol . Sodium was 2,300 mg at the 2,100 kcal energy level and was indexed across energy levels . Calcium , magnesium , and potassium were consistent with recommendations for the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet and also indexed to energy levels . Each diet pattern met the major nutrient recommendations set by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 . The 10 % protein increase in the higher protein diet emphasized plant protein ; however , meat and dairy food sources were also increased somewhat . Olive oil , canola oil , and olive oil spread were used liberally to achieve the unsaturated fat content of the higher unsaturated fat diet . The 10 % reduction in carbohydrate in the higher protein diet and the higher unsaturated fat diet was achieved by replacing some fruits with vegetables , reducing sweets , and using smaller portions of grain products . All three diets reduced blood pressure , total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels , and estimated coronary heart disease risk . CONCLUSIONS The OmniHeart diet patterns offer substantial flexibility in macronutrient intake that should make it easier to eat a heart-healthy diet and reduce cardiovascular disease risk ABSTRACT Background : There are no investigations regarding the effects of consuming low-energy-dense diets rich in multiple functional foods on weight-loss maintenance , inflammatory markers , and cardiovascular disease ( CVD ) risk factors simultaneously . Method : This r and omized controlled trial design was conducted on 90 men and women who were under a previous weight loss diet . Three months of intervention with recruitment at Allzahra Hospital , Isfahan , Iran , was done . Intervention was conducted following achieving 7–11 kg weight loss . Participants were encouraged to consumed these three : an isocaloric control diet ( 50 % of energy from carbohydrate , 35 % from fat , 15 % from protein ) , a low-glycemic-index diet ( LE ) ( 60 % from carbohydrate , 25 % from fat , and 15 % from protein ) , and a low-glycemic-index diet rich in multiple functional foods ( LE + FF ) ( 60 % from carbohydrate , 25 % from fat , and 15 % from protein ) . Fasting blood glucose , serum insulin level , lipid profiles , inflammatory markers , adiponectin , systolic and diastolic blood pressure , and anthropometric measurements were assessed using st and ard guidelines . Results : The percent changes of weight , waist , and body mass index ( BMI ) , systolic and diastolic blood pressure , malondialdehyde ( MDA ) , high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ( hs-CRP ) , tumor necrosis factor ( TNF ) α , total cholesterol , low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol , triglyceride , and fasting blood glucose ( FBS ) were substantially more decreased in the LE + FF group compared to the LE and control groups ( p ≤ 0.03 ) . Percent change of adiponectin among the LE + FF group was significantly more enhanced ( 7.29 ± 0.10 ) compared with the LE group ( 1.28 ± 0.20 ) ( p = 0.001 ) . Significantly more increment in the percent change of total antioxidant capacity ( TAC ) ( 6.91 ± 0.10 ) was obtained among the LE + FF group compared to the LE group ( 1.79 ± 0.04 ) . Conclusions : This study provides established evidence supporting the beneficial effects of a low-energy-dense diet rich in multiple functional foods diet on improving weight-loss maintenance , inflammation , and cardiovascular risk factors Although popular diets focus on weight loss and their favorable biochemical and physiological effects , fewer investigations have evaluated the biological impact of these diets during weight maintenance . To study this issue , three popular diets-Atkins , South Beach , and Ornish-were tested in a r and omized and counterbalanced crossover study between January and December 2006 . Participants completed each of the three 4-week isocaloric dietary intervention phases followed by a 4-week washout period . They were weighed weekly and caloric adjustments made if weight change exceeded 1 kg . At the completion of each dietary phase , 3-day food records were analyzed , fasting blood sample d , and brachial artery reactivity testing performed . Eighteen adults completed all three isocaloric dietary phases . During the South Beach and Ornish maintenance phase , there were significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( 11.8 % ; P=0.01 , 16.6 % ; P=0.0006 , respectively ) compared to prediet baseline . In addition , in contrast to the Atkins maintenance phase , significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B levels were observed after the South Beach ( P=0.003 , P=0.05 ; repeated measures analyses of variance ) and Ornish maintenance phases ( P=0.0004 , P=0.006 , repeated measures analyses of variance ) . Brachial artery testing revealed an inverse correlation between flow-mediated vasodilatation and intake of saturated fat ( r=-0.33 ; P=0.016 ) . These data suggest that during weight maintenance , less favorable biological effects are observed during a simulated , high-fat Atkins diet when compared to the South Beach and Ornish diet . The findings support additional study in subjects with visceral obesity and the metabolic syndrome , in whom an increased risk of coronary disease at baseline may be accentuated with chronic consumption of a diet that exhibits unfavorable effects on lipids and endothelial function
Conclusion The Nordic dietary pattern  improves blood pressure and also some of blood lipid markers and it should be considered as a healthy dietary pattern
Background and aims The Nordic diet ( ND ) , is supposed to be associated with a reduced cardiovascular risk ; however , clinical trials have led to inconsistent results regarding the effect of this diet on cardio-metabolic markers .
Using systematic review and meta- analysis of r and omized controlled trials ( RCTs ) , this study aim ed to investigate the effect of the ND on circulating levels of total , low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) , and high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) cholesterol , and triglyceride ( TG ) , as well as blood pressure in human adults .