Determining the dietary patterns and dietary constituents that are most effective in preventing cardiovascular disease events. In addition to the obvious challenge of limited resources, the challenge is overcoming the tension between desire for comparable data produced from low-cost tools and need for higher quality data. Many studies continue using low-cost self-reported diet assessment instruments that produce data... more »

There remain very substantial unexplained international geographic variations in the incidence of CHD. Japan, for example, and some of the Mediterranean countries have CHD incidence rates for both men and women that are 1/3-1/4 of those in the United States.

There is growing evidence that risk factors beginning in childhood and young adult life, e.g. from such studies as CARDIA, Bogalusa, etc., are primary determinants of risk of CHD in adults.

The fact that diet contributes significantly to prevention and treatment of disease is now a foregone conclusion. National and international guidelines offer evidence based recommendations advocating nutrients, foods and eating patterns that are most closely associated with reduced risk. Patients assume that physicians are knowledgeable regarding the role of diet in health and that they are trained to counsel patients... more »

What is the effect of coconut oil (high in saturated fat) on blood lipids and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk?

Of the components of DASH diet, which dietary changes have the greatest impact on reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors?

How can we rank the relative health effects of individual dietary changes such as reducing sodium, increasing fiber, reducing saturated/trans fats, etc. to identify where to target interventions for promoting initial dietary changes?

How can we best encourage and support collaborations between academic researchers and industry partners to test strategies for changing nutritional choices and eating behaviors to healthier patterns that can improve obesity rates? Subquestions include issues around adopting healthier food choices in a variety of environments, effects of diet alteration, the methods and effects of enhancing healthier food flavors, understanding... more »

If I understand correctly what I've read, it may be tough to get enough Omega 3 because Omega 3 & Omega 6 compete with each other & many people consume much more Omega 6 than Omega 3. http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400149/balancing-omega-3-and-omega-6.html I fear the situation might be even worse for vegetarians, because from what I've read, it appears much easier to get the DHA & EPA forms of Omega 3 from animal sources.... more »