The ketogenic (keto) diet is a popular eating plan that involves drastically reducing your intake of carbohydrates and replacing them with fats. The idea is to force your body to use fat as its main source of energy, instead of glucose from carbs. This process, called ketosis, may have various benefits for weight loss,
blood sugar control, and brain function. However, some people may wonder how the keto diet affects cholesterol levels and heart health. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in your blood and helps your body make hormones, vitamin D, and cell membranes. However, too much cholesterol can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is often called the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque formation in your arteries. HDL is often called the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove some of the LDL from your blood and protects your arteries. So, can the keto diet cause high cholesterol? The answer is not so simple. Several studies have suggested that the keto diet can affect cholesterol levels in different ways, depending on various factors such as the type and quality of fats you eat, your genetic makeup, and how long you follow the diet. GET A KETO DIET CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU In general, most research indicates that the keto diet can help lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol levels in the long term. However, some people may experience a temporary increase in total and LDL cholesterol levels in the short term, especially if they consume a lot of saturated fats from animal sources such as red meat, cheese, and butter. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend choosing healthier sources of fats on the keto diet, such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. These fats are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and improve heart health. Additionally, eating more fiber from low-carb vegetables and fruits can help lower cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids in your gut and preventing them from being reabsorbed into your blood. GET A KETO DIET CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU If you have preexisting high cholesterol levels or other risk factors for heart disease, you should consult with your doctor before starting the keto diet. They can monitor your cholesterol levels and adjust your medication if needed. You may also benefit from taking supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, or red yeast rice to support your heart health while on the keto diet. The bottom line is that the keto diet can affect cholesterol levels in different ways depending on various factors. For most people, the keto diet can lower total and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol levels in the long term. However, some people may need to adjust their fat intake and supplement their diet to prevent adverse effects on their cholesterol levels and heart health. GET A KETO DIET CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or diet regimen.
0 Comments
|
AuthorHorace Ward ArchivesCategories |