Clinical as well as basic research in the field of atherogenesis indicates that 
the progression of this disease process can be slowed down or even reversed. It 
is well established that nutrition plays an important role in the prevention and 
treatment of the classical atherogenic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes 
mellitus and hyperlipidemia. In addition, some nutrients such as the 
polyunsaturated n-3-fatty-acids or antioxidative vitamins can intervene directly 
by influencing one or more steps of the atherogenetic and/or thrombogenetic 
process. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease as 
well as of the mechanisms of nutrient action are essential to the planning of 
successful nutritional prevention strategies. Because most nutrients influence 
mainly the slow and long-standing development of the atherosclerotic lesion, 
their inclusion in primary nutritional prevention should be started at an early 
age. Few nutrients such as the n-3 fatty acids, which also reduce the 
thrombogenetic risk factors, have demonstrated some success in the secondary 
prevention of CHD. Given the complexity with which nutrients intervene in the 
atherosclerotic process and their interactions with each other, nutritional 
prevention strategies should be based on well-grounded dietary modifications 
rather than supplementation with individual nutrients.