a diet containing a minimal proportion of fat. Diets containing low amounts of fat and cholesterol are designed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, specifically atherosclerosis. A low-fat diet should derive fewer than 10% of its calories from saturated fat (e.g., meats, dairy products) and should be low in cholesterol (less than 300 mg/d) and trans fatty acids (e.g., hydrogenated oils as in stick margarine and shortening) and rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and legumes.atherosclerosis, free radical Low-fat diet: Treatments