REVIEW OF 5 YEARS OF A COMBINED DIETARY AND PHYSICAL-FITNESS INTERVENTION FOR CONTROL OF SERUM-CHOLESTEROL

A chart review covering the first 5 years of clinical experience with a combined dietary and exercise intervention program for the reduction of hypercholesterolemia at the National Aeronautics and Space Adminis tration headquarters demonstrated the programs success in maintaining densitY lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels while significantly low ering total serum cholesterol levels. This combined Program also resul ted in improved ratios of total serum cholesterol to HDL-C and lowered levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, thus further reducing the risk for cardiovascular disease. The National Aeronautics and Spac e Administration Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Program was developed a fter it was determined that although dietary intervention alone improv ed total cholesterol levels, it often resulted in a more than proporti onate decrease in HDL-C and a worsening of the ratio of cholesterol to HDL-C. An approach was needed that would positively affect all factor s of the lipid profile. The findings from the program indicate that re duction of cardiovascular risk can be accomplished easily and effectiv ely at the worksite through dietary intervention, personal monitoring, and a reasonable exercise program.