[Dietary cholesterol as a conditioner of ingestion of other nutrients and various blood parameters in young women].

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of cholesterol intakes of greater (HC) or less than 300 mg/day (LC) (the upper advisable limit for the control of cholesterolaemia and the risk of cardiovascular disease) on a range of blood parameters, and to determine any influence such intakes might have on the consumption of food, energy and nutrients. The study subjects we one hundred and thirty young women. Food intake was determined using a 7-day dietary record (including a Sunday). A range of serum lipid parameters, and haematological and biochemical indicators of iron status were also determined. The percentage discrepancy between observed energy intake and theoretical energy expenditure was greater amongst LC subjects (9.7 +/- 18.8% compared to 5.5 +/- 24.4% in HC subjects) (P < 0.05). Analysis of covariance was therefore performed with respect to the degree of underestimation/overestimation of intake. The comparison of the adjusted means showed that HC subjects consumed greater quantities of eggs and meat and less alcohol, than did LC subjects. HC subjects also showed greater intakes of protein, carbohydrates, total fats, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, vitamin E, zinc and iron. At blood level, HC subjects showed greater quantities of red blood cells, haemoglobin and HDL cholesterol. No significant differences were seen between LC and HC subjects for the remaining blood and biochemical parameters investigated. The development of criteria for the greatest protection against cardiovascular disease whilst maintaining good nutritive condition, is the subject of studies soon to be commenced. Women may need different advice to men, owing to their greater need of iron. Greater quantities of foods rich in haem iron, such as meat and fish, might be appropriate for the female population.