Reviewed here are results of intervention studies examining relationships between diet and hyperlipidaemia, or diet and cardiovascular disease (CVD). A reduction in the intake of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and trans-fatty acids (TFAs), and an increase in the intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are favourable to lipoprotein status. Where a reduction in total fat intake is achieved by a reduction in dietary SFAs, there would appear to be a favourable effect on CVD events and mortality, although the evidence for this from intervention studies is not strong. Adequate dietary PUFA intake, both w 6 and w 3, may be associated with reduced risk for CVD events more via pathways other than those which operate through lipoproteins. Other macronutrients including carbohydrates, proteins and alcohol can have significant effects on lipoproteins, although the effects of dietary intervention with these nutrients on coronary and total mortality are virtually unknown. Non-nutrient components of foods with small lipid lowering properties may be cumulatively important in an overall diet. In relation to food, results of secondary intervention studies provide support for a beneficial role of plant food and fish in reducing coronary and total mortality. Therefore as far as both hyperlipidaemia and CVD are concerned, the total dietary approach may be more important than the single nutrient approach.