Van Gool & Bridges
Until such time as there exists sufficient evidence to believe that fish consumption is an
independent risk factor for CHD it will be excluded from this analysis. This is not to
say that strategies that include the encouragement of fish Consiunption will be excluded.
However, the benefits of such strategies will be measured in the improvement of other
risk factors for CHD.
Nutrition - VegetarianZVegan diets
There have been a number of studies that have shown an improvement in the rates of
CHD among vegetarian and vegan communities. However, the reduced risks can be
explained though an improvement in other risk factors13.
Vegetarians and vegans diets have been shown to have lower levels of LDL-C than
omnivores (Burr et al, 1988; Fonnebo, 1988 & Fraser 1988), and lower levels of clotting
factors ( IIV VIIX) (Haines et al, 1980). Some studies have found that vegetarians
have lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than the general population (Sanders et
al, 1987 & Armstrong, 1979). In addition a lower incidence of diabetes has been found
to be associated with vegetarian diets (Snowden, 1985).
Unlike some other special diets, like those high in fish, there has been no research that
has linked vegetarian diets directly, and independently of other risk factors, with
reduced rates of CHD. Thus, even though a movement towards vegetarian diets may be
a valid strategy in the reduction of CHD, such a movement in risk could be measured
using other measurements.
Nutrition - Diabetes
The links between diabetes, both insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and non-
insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), is not clear (Mann, 1996). There is
insufficient evidence to formally describe diabetes or diabetes treatment, as an
independent risk factor for CHD.
The link between diabetes and CHD was discovered through autopsy studies that
showed diabetics had more extensive coronary atherosclerosis. Further to this it has
'3 Also see www.heartfoundation.com.au/docs/pp2.htm as at 24/02/98
59
Chere Project Report 11- November 1999