“Direct comparison of a dietary portfolio of cholesterol-lowering foods with a statin in hypercholesterolemic participants 1,2,3” -critical review

The research was conducted by international group headed by David JA Jenkins, M.D. The objective of research was “to compare, in the same subjects, the cholesterol-lowering potential of a dietary portfolio with that of a statin” (p.380) This research was conducted in the exploration framework for new dietary approach combining cholesterol-lowering foods and stanins use for reductions in LDL cholesterol. Statins are actively used as cardiovascular treatment but the diet is still the primary preventive measure. The research was intended to find the most appropriate diet.
Method
The study was conducted on the base of treatment of 34 patients who completed all three stages of previous treatment. The patients were feed with specially developed diet. Weekly their body weight was measured, besides, every two weeks the blood samples were obtained, and cardiovascular pressure was measured during every visit to clinic. Patients also provided their dietary checklist every week. In addition, patients were provided statins and placebo tablets in the same containers randomly.
Result
The statistical analysis of data show that there was no significant difference in body weight and blood lips in all three groups – those who were taken statins, those who were taken placebo tablets, and control group. However, as to concentration of LDL-cholesterol in the blood both diets were more effective than feeding in control group. Statin diet was the most effective for LDL-cholesterol concentration decrease.
Scientific opinion
Diet and lifestyle changes always were the primary recommendations in cardiovascular disease treatment. Cholesterol-lowering medications can be used together with cholesterol-low food as an effective preventive measure and part of treatment. However, some patients cannot be treated in this way because of side effects of cholesterol.

Work cited
Jenkins, J.A. et al. “Direct comparison of a dietary portfolio of cholesterol-lowering foods with a statin in hypercholesterolemic participants 1,2,3” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 81, No. 2, 380-387, February 2005