Your genes may decide whether a low-carb diet sends cholesterol soaring
A low-carb diet may raise LDL cholesterol much more sharply in people who are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol, particularly when they consume lots of saturated fat. The findings could help explain why people following seemingly similar diets can have dramatically different results.
Low-carb diets have garnered popularity, but their impact on cholesterol varies greatly among individuals. New research indicates that genetics may play a role in determining how a person responds to low-carb diets. Specifically, saturated fat in these diets could interact with a person's genetic makeup to raise LDL cholesterol, a key factor in heart disease risk.
This genetic factor might explain why two individuals following similar low-carb diets could have differing cholesterol responses. Dr. Alexa Barad, the lead researcher, explained that some people may be more sensitive to the LDL cholesterol-raising effects of saturated fat, particularly within a low-carbohydrate diet, due to their genetic background.
The study, presented at NUTRITION 2026, the American Society for Nutrition's annual meeting, revealed that genetic makeup, saturated fat consumption, diet type, and changes in LDL cholesterol over six months were analyzed in 431 participants from a randomized controlled trial. Genetic data showed that individuals genetically predisposed to higher LDL cholesterol were more likely to experience an increase when consuming more saturated fat on a low-carb diet, compared to those on a low-fat diet.
The researchers used a polygenic score, a composite of thousands of genetic variants, to estimate each participant's overall genetic tendency toward higher or lower LDL cholesterol. They emphasized that genetic testing is not necessary to derive practical advice from these findings. Instead, they recommend monitoring individual responses to dietary changes rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all outcome.
The study suggests that for those following low-carbohydrate diets, focusing on unsaturated fats like nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocado may help mitigate the risk of unfavorable cholesterol changes.
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