Ask Our Nutritionist: Will a Keto Diet Affect My Already High Cholesterol?

• The keto diet typically leads to weight loss, which can improve cholesterol levels.
• However, consuming high amounts of saturated fat on the keto diet may also raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
• It's important to choose healthy sources of fat, such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

Overall, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of the keto diet on cholesterol. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or making significant changes to your current diet.

Ketosis is a natural metabolic state your body enters when switching to a keto diet. It has numerous health benefits and is safe for most people.

👍 Benefits of ketosis:

• 🔥 Boosts fat burning
• 💪 Preserves muscle mass
• 🧠 Improves brain function
• ❤️ Promotes heart health
• ⚡Increases energy levels

Who Shouldn't Try the Keto Diet?

• People with kidney or liver disease
• Those with familial hypercholesterolemia, a condition where high cholesterol runs in families
• Individuals with fat-induced lipemia

If You Have These Conditions, Consult a Dietitian Before Trying Keto:

• Type 1 Diabetes
• Gallbladder problems
• Genetic disorders that affect fat metabolism

Possible Risks for Keto Diet During Pregnancy:

• Can alter fetal growth
• May lead to increased anxiety and depression in adulthood
• Can result in nutrient deficiency

Consult a healthcare professional before trying the keto diet if:

1. You have high cholesterol levels
2. You are pregnant
3. You are concerned about the diet's safety for yourself and your baby

Disclaimer: The jury is still out on whether the keto diet is safe during pregnancy, so it's best to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional.

Consider swapping some saturated fats for monounsaturated fats to improve cholesterol levels.

• Avocados, olive oil, nuts, and nut butters are good sources of monounsaturated fats.
• Polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s, may also lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL cholesterol.
• Include foods like flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and fatty fish in your keto diet for these benefits.

Keep your heart health in mind when choosing fats on a keto diet. 🥑

When following a keto diet, don't forget to include fiber-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, berries, and low carb veggies. A higher fiber intake can help lower cholesterol levels.

Why Fiber is Essential:

• Helps maintain a healthy gut
• Reduces risk of heart disease
• Keeps you feeling full for longer