Although the evidence that dietary intervention reduces blood lipid levels is strong, evidence linking hypercholesterolemia and heart disease in elderly persons is conflicting. Treatment through dietary intervention for secondary prevention of heart disease in all elderly individuals and for primary prevention in those less than 75 years with risk factors seems to be justified. A more flexible dietary approach should be adopted for primary prevention of heart disease in the persons over 75 years. "The most reasonable dietary advice in them would be moderation, balance and variety".