Diet and low-density lipoprotein particle size.

Small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles are being increasingly recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This paper provides an overview of how different diets and macronutrients modulate the LDL size phenotype. Data reviewed indicated that several components of the LDL size phenotype should be measured concurrently in order to fully appreciate the impact of diet on this complex trait. Data also suggested that numerous dietary elements have a significant impact on several characteristics of the LDL size phenotype, thus providing further evidence to the concept that specific dietary modifications can beneficially alter cardiovascular disease risk beyond their known and demonstrated effects on plasma LDL cholesterol concentrations.