Final answer:
True. Diet alone is often not enough to effectively lower cholesterol levels. A combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity, and other lifestyle adjustments are also important in managing cholesterol.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recent studies have shown that diet alone is often insufficient in lowering cholesterol, which implies that the statement is true. To effectively lower cholesterol, a combination of dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and sometimes medication is required. Dietary approaches generally recommend the substitution of unsaturated fats for saturated fats and a reduction in the consumption of trans fatty acids. Foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, typically animal products, contribute to higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as the 'bad' cholesterol, which can lead to atherosclerosis. In addition to dietary changes, increasing physical activity and eliminating smoking can improve the LDL:HDL ratio, a key predictor of heart disease risk. Some natural oils, such as peanut and soybean oil, may be beneficial in lowering plasma cholesterol. However, it's important to note that recent studies have begun to question the importance of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and its protective role against cardiovascular disease, as well as the previously assumed direct link between saturated fat intake and heart disease.