However, a new study shows that for some people, such a diet can significantly increase cholesterol levels and contribute to a higher risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, writes the Daily Mail.
Typically, a low-carbohydrate diet consists largely of fats, with increased protein intake and significantly fewer carbohydrate-containing products, such as potatoes or bread.
Previously, such a diet was also associated with higher levels of so-called “good” cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove fatty deposits from the arteries.
However, new results suggest that for some people, a low-carbohydrate diet may increase “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. This is especially relevant for people who are genetically predisposed to higher cholesterol levels.
Genes may have an influence
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine sought to determine whether a person’s genetic traits could help identify who would benefit from a lower carbohydrate intake in their diet and who might experience an undesirable increase in cholesterol.
The study initially analyzed data from more than 600 adults who followed either a healthy low-carbohydrate or a healthy low-fat diet for one year. The researchers did not find a clear advantage of either diet in terms of weight loss.
Later, the scientists conducted a more detailed analysis of 431 study participants for whom genetic data was available. They assessed people’s genetic traits, saturated fat intake, and changes in “bad” cholesterol.
It turned out that among those following a low-carbohydrate diet, individuals genetically predisposed to high “bad” cholesterol levels were more likely to experience a potentially dangerous increase in it.
The scientists associate this with the fact that when reducing carbohydrate intake, they are often replaced by fattier products – for example, red meat or cheese.
The study showed that for people with the highest genetic predisposition to high cholesterol, “bad” cholesterol increased the most when they consumed more saturated fats.
The researchers hope that in the future, a similar method could help doctors and nutritionists identify people for whom certain diets may cause unfavorable cholesterol changes.
It is important not only to reduce carbohydrates
Saturated fats are found in many food products, but a large portion comes from animal products – meat and dairy products. Saturated fats are also present in palm oil.
Meanwhile, unsaturated fats are mostly found in plant products and fish.
The study authors emphasize that a one-size-fits-all diet plan does not work for everyone. Study leader Alexa Barad stated that while a low-carbohydrate diet may be beneficial for some people, it can increase cholesterol levels in others.
Therefore, when following such a diet, it is important to pay attention not only to how many carbohydrates are consumed but also to what they are replaced with. If bread, grains, or other carbohydrates are replaced with meat high in saturated fats, butter, or fatty dairy products, cholesterol levels may increase. Meanwhile, a better choice may be nuts, seeds, olive oil, and other sources of unsaturated fats.
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