How the keto diet, which is high in fat and low in carbs, may affect your health and cholesterol. A short guide:
1. Keto Diet Basics: The keto diet limits carb intake to 20–50 grams per day, making the body use ketone bodies, made from the breakdown of fat, as its main energy source³. This state is called ketosis³.
2. Effect on Cholesterol: The keto diet can change cholesterol levels, but the results are not clear²³⁴⁵. Some studies say that the keto diet can make total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels lower while making HDL (good) cholesterol levels higher³. But, in some cases, the keto diet may make total and LDL cholesterol levels higher in the short term³.
3. Things to Think About: The kind of fats eaten on the keto diet can affect cholesterol levels¹. Good fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish, are good². Avoiding trans fats, processed meats, and fried foods may also help control cholesterol levels³.
4. Talk to a Doctor: It’s important to talk to a doctor before starting the keto diet, especially if you have high cholesterol or other problems²³. Regular check-ups of cholesterol levels are also important²³.
In summary, while the keto diet may have some effect on cholesterol levels, the proof is not clear and different people can have different reactions. More studies are needed to fully know the connection between the keto diet and cholesterol.
(Note: This is a general guide and different people might need different things. Always talk to a doctor for advice that is right for you.)
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