Monounsaturates: Summaries of and links to the literature
Mensink RP et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2003;77:1146–1155.
Meta-analysis of 60 trials showing the impact of saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and trans fat on blood lipid chemistry. Available here
Appel LJ et al. JAMA. 2005;294:2455–2464.
A high MUFA diet (21% kcal) was associated with a decrease in LDL-c and a decrease in
TC/HCL-c ratio. Available here
Chang NW, Huang PC. J Lipid Res. 1990;31:2141–2147.
Results of a prospective trial in healthy adults in which subjects were fed a diet low or high in monounsaturated fatty acids. The paper concludes that a diet high in monounsaturates may increase some lipid fractions, especially triglycerides. Available here
Van Horn L et al. J Am Diet Assoc. 2008;108:287–331.
A comprehensive and systematic review of the evidence for key dietary factors and their associated risk of cardiovascular disease. Abstract available here
Lada AT, Rudel LL. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2003;14:41–46.
This review provides both current opinions favoring diets high in MUFA based on epidemiological data and risk factor analysis, along with studies demonstrating detrimental effects on atherosclerosis in animal models. Abstract available here
Pérez-Jiménez F et al. Atherosclerosis. 2002;163:385–398.
This paper presents findings from some expert panels limiting the intake of MUFA to no more than 10% to 15% of total calories, but also presents early evidence for positive effects of MUFA beyond its effect on lipids. Abstract available here
Position of the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada: Dietary Fatty Acids. J Am Diet Assoc. 2007;107:1599–1611.
Available here
National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel.
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III): Final Report. Available here
AHA Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations
Available here