Low-carbohydrate diets have become increasingly popular in recent years and are said to help maintain blood sugar and weight levels while also reducing the risk of diabetes.
However, a new study has found that this type of diet may significantly increase cholesterol levels in some people, potentially raising the risk of heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.
According to an estimate, almost half of adults in the UK have high cholesterol. Cholesterol can cause dangerous fatty deposits to build up in the arteries, contributing to around one in five deaths each year. Low-carbohydrate diets, such as those that restrict foods like potatoes and bread, contain approximately 75% fat, 20% protein and 10% carbohydrates.
This dietary plan has previously also been credited with increasing levels of good cholesterol. HDL helps remove fatty deposits from the blood vessels.
However, the findings of the new study suggest that low-carbohydrate diets may increase levels of bad cholesterol in people at higher risk, particularly because such diets may include foods high in fat.
Alexa Bard, an author of the research team, said that although some people may benefit from a low-carbohydrate diet, it is not equally beneficial for everyone. She said dietary advice is sometimes presented as though it applies equally to every person. Among people who had the highest genetic risk for high cholesterol, the greatest increase in bad cholesterol was observed when they consumed higher amounts of saturated fat.
The research team hopes that their approach will eventually help doctors and nutrition experts identify people who are more likely to experience harmful changes in cholesterol levels from consuming certain foods.
Saturated fats are found in many foods, but a large proportion comes from animal-based meat and dairy products. Palm oil is also a source of saturated fat.
In contrast, unsaturated fats are mainly found in plants and fish. According to current guidelines in the UK, saturated fat should account for no more than around 10% of daily calorie intake. For men, this means a maximum of approximately 30 grams of saturated fat per day, while women are advised not to consume more than 20 grams per day.
According to guidance from the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), saturated fat intake should be reduced to lower the risk of heart disease and, where possible, replaced with unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fats.
For people following a low-carbohydrate diet, this means choosing foods such as nuts, seeds and olive oil instead of butter, fatty meats and processed meats.
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