ABSTRACT
Risk factor control in cardiovascular disease (CVD) populations remains inadequate despite increasing use of cardioprotective medications. Lifestyle modifications are effective for primary and secondary CVD prevention and provide additive and often synergistic benefits when added to pharmacotherapy. The demonstrated efficacy of cardioprotective medications in large randomized controlled trials has driven changes in clinical guidelines and treatment goals. Optimizing nutrition and dietary intake is recognized as an important component of the primary and secondary prevention of CVD. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, olive oil as the primary fat source, decreased red meat intake, and increased fish intake, mild-to-moderate red wine consumption, and limited intake of sweets and processed foods. Population-based cohort studies have shown that regular physical activity is inversely correlated to the incidence of CVD and CVD-related mortality. The complex relationship between psychosocial health and CVD has been an area of growing investigation.
