Scoring systems for evaluating dietary pattern effect on serum cholesterol

Abstract Scoring systems are presented that indicate the power of a day's food for elevating serum cholesterol. The scores, based on the work of Keys, Anderson, and Grande, Circulation 19 , 201–214, 1959, fill a role analogous to calories in weight loss. The scores are based on saturated and polyunsaturated fat, cholesterol, and calories in the daily diet. Two of the scores, φ and B, are nearly equal in precision. Either may be used in research as a measure of the effect of habitual diet on the serum cholesterol of a population, small group, or individual. The third score presented, Dietary Achievement Score, is less precise but provides a simple, practical, clinical tool for quickly assessing dietary adherence and for teaching about serum cholesterol-lowering eating patterns on a portion-by-portion basis.