Anthropometric and dietary predictors of high density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration in a population-based study. The Regicor study

Objectives. The aim of the present study was to identify dietary and anthro pometric factors influencing HDL cholesterol levels in the region of Girona . Poblation and methods. A cross-sectional study was designed with random rec ruitment and 798 men and 862 women mere included. Anthropometric variables mere collected, the energy expenditure in physical activity was calculated and a dietary questionnaire mas supplied in order to obtain nutritional dat a. Furthermore, Lipid levels and lipoprotein concentrations were determined . Results. Significant differences mere found in serum triglycerides, body ma ss index, glucose levels and alcohol intake between the upper and the lower tertils of HDL cholesterol in both men and women. In men, energy expenditu re in physical activity was significantly associated with HDL cholesterol l evels, as well. as total fat and monounsaturated fat. In women, together wi th the waist-to-hip ratio and fasted glycemia, vitamine C was the dietary f actor positively associated with HDL cholesterol levels. Conclusions. Moderate alcohol intake, physical activity, vitamine C consump tion and optimizing body weight strongly contribute to increased HDL choles terol levels in our region.