Dr. Eric Berg explains that many people find their LDL or total cholesterol levels rise after starting a ketogenic diet , even though it should be decreasing. Why is this happening? Actually, this phenomenon is not common, but it doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem.
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🧪 Is LDL cholesterol? Let's clarify the definition first.
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is a "carrier" that transports cholesterol, not cholesterol itself.
- LDL is responsible for transporting cholesterol from the liver to body tissues.
- HDL , on the other hand, carries cholesterol from the tissues back to the liver.
- Cholesterol is an essential raw material for the production of hormones (testosterone, cortisol, estrogen) and cell membranes.
🧬 Why does cholesterol rise in the early stages of a ketogenic diet?
- The ketogenic diet causes fat cells to shrink, releasing triglycerides (which are used for energy).
- However, fat cells also store a small amount of cholesterol, which is not released immediately in the initial stages.
- After several weeks or months, cholesterol begins to be released → enters the liver → binds in bile → and is excreted through the intestines.
- Dr. Steven Finny's research found that some people can release up to 300mg of cholesterol at a time.
🥩 A high-fat diet can also raise blood lipid levels.
- A ketogenic diet with high fat intake increases the amount of fat circulating in the blood .
- This situation isn't necessarily dangerous; the key factor is the type of LDL particles .
⚠️ LDL comes in two types: with different risks
1️ Type A : Large particles, strong buoyancy
- From a high-fat, low-carb diet
- It is not easy to penetrate the blood vessel wall and has low risk.
2️ Type B : Fine particles, high density ( Small Dense )
- From a high-carbohydrate diet
- It can easily cause inflammation of blood vessels → calcification, cholesterol accumulation, and thrombosis.
A standard cholesterol test cannot distinguish LDL particle types → it is recommended to have an " Advanced Lipid Panel ".
🧪 Real-life example: High LDL does not necessarily mean danger.
Dr. Berg's wife, Karen, had a very high LDL (Lower Length Distance). After further examination, it was found that almost all of her LDL was Type A , with very little Type B – no need to worry.
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- Increase your vegetable intake → Fiber can bind with fat and help eliminate it.
- Reduce your intake of some high-fat foods (such as butter), but it is not recommended to go below 75 grams of fat per day.
- The most important thing is to understand the type of LDL particles, rather than just looking at the total numbers.
🧾 In conclusion: Don't assume that "high cholesterol equals illness" anymore. Knowing how to distinguish between different causes is the only way to truly feel at ease.
The initial increase in cholesterol during the ketogenic diet may be due to the release of fat cells or increased fat intake. Starting today, a comprehensive lipid test, a plate of high-fiber vegetables, and a proper understanding of LDL types will help you build a strong foundation for your cardiovascular health!
Don't be trapped by the myth that "cholesterol = bad." True health comes from knowing how to distinguish, adjust, and understand! 💪 🥬
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YouTube source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXwDi6qTbtw
YouTube Column: Dr. Berger in Chinese Health knowledge
