28/07/2024
28/07/2024
KUWAIT CITY, July 28: In an exclusive interview with Dr. Rajesh Rajan, a senior cardiologist, insightful recommendations were shared regarding the low-carb, high-fat diet. Dr. Rajan highlighted the potential risks associated with following such dietary plans as per the published scientific data in the Journal of American College of Cardiology.

A recent study cohort from the UK Biobank examined the impact of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet on cardiovascular health. The study found that individuals following an LCHF diet had higher levels of LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B, both of which are linked to an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The study involved 1,525 participants, with 305 participants following an LCHF diet. The results showed that individuals on the LCHF diet had a 118% higher risk of MACE compared to those on a standard diet. Additionally, levels of LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B were higher in the LCHF group. It’s important to note that a higher level of apolipoprotein B is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The study also revealed that the risk of MACE was higher in the LCHF group when individuals with diabetes were excluded. Subgroup analyses showed that the risk of MACE was 50% higher in the low-carbohydrate (LC) group and 105% higher in the very low carbohydrate (VLC) group. The findings suggest that an LCHF diet may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by raising levels of LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B.
It’s important to consider the nutrient composition of the diet, as a diet rich in saturated fats and dietary cholesterol can lead to a significant increase in LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B levels. Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of these nutrients and focus on sources of unsaturated fats, especially polyunsaturated fats, to optimize heart health.
It’s important to note that this study has some limitations. The researchers relied on a single 24-hour dietary recall, which may not accurately represent the participants’ usual diet. Additionally, the subgroup analysis had a small sample size, limiting the ability to detect significant differences in MACE risk between groups. In conclusion, while an LCHF diet may have some benefits, it’s crucial to consider its potential risks to cardiovascular health. Individuals considering a low-carbohydrate diet should be aware of the impact on LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B levels. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure a balanced and heart-healthy approach to nutrition.
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Dr. Rajesh Rajan is a renowned Indian cardiologist at Al Amiri Hospital Kuwait and holds prestigious positions as the current President of the Association of MD Physicians and the Managing Editor of the esteemed Annals of Clinical Cardiology Journal by Wolters Kluwer. His contributions to the medical community are highly regarded, and he has been honored with Fellowships from esteemed institutions such as the Royal College of London, Edinburgh, Ireland, and Glasgow. Dr. Rajan’s expertise and commitment to cardiovascular health are evident through his groundbreaking research and recognition as a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, the European Society of Cardiology, the American Society of Echocardiography, and the American Heart Association.