A review of the role of fiber, phytochemicals and omega 3 fatty acids in cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death and disability in developed countries and was predicted by the WHO to become the major cause of mortality in developing countries by 2010. Effective prevention needs a global strategy based on knowledge of the importance of risk factors, including diet. In recent years, many researches have been focused on the role of fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and phytochemicals in the prevention of CVD. The objective of this review is to present an updated overview of the potential effect of fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and phytochemicals in reducing the incidence of CVD through diet.