Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for a significant proportion of premature deaths and disability in both developed and developing countries. In recent decades, the role of nutrition in the development and progression of cardiovascular disorders has become one of the central topics in preventive medicine and clinical cardiology. Modern scientific evidence demonstrates that dietary habits significantly influence lipid metabolism, vascular integrity, inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and metabolic regulation, all of which are key factors in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The nutritional approach allows the identification of modifiable risk factors associated with excessive intake of saturated fats, trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and sodium, as well as insufficient consumption of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. The purpose of this article is to analyze the theoretical and clinical foundations of the nutritional approach in the etiology of cardiovascular diseases based on modern scientific concepts, epidemiological studies, and theoretical models of metabolic and vascular disorders. Special attention is given to the mechanisms through which improper nutrition contributes to atherosclerosis, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and metabolic syndrome. The study also examines the role of preventive nutrition, functional foods, and balanced dietary patterns in reducing cardiovascular risk. The results of theoretical analysis show that rational nutrition plays a decisive role not only in the prevention but also in the progression and clinical outcome of cardiovascular diseases. The nutritional approach should therefore be considered an essential component of modern cardiology, public health, and preventive medicine strategies aimed at reducing the global burden of cardiovascular pathology.

cardiovascular diseases, nutrition, diet, atherosclerosis, hypertension, lipid metabolism, risk factors, preventive medicine, metabolic syndrome, vascular pathology, healthy diet, epidemiology, public health

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