How Does The Atkins Diet Affect High Cholesterol?The Atkins diet consists of many fatty and protein rich foods. This program tends to have a favorable effect on cholesterol levels. It has been shown that the Atkins diet actually brings down the cholesterol levels because it increases the amount of HDL, or good cholesterol, in the body. The selection of foods on the Atkins diet are naturally high in fat, and has no side effects on high cholesterol levels. A reduction of cholesterol when on the Atkins diets is thought to occur because of losing excess body fat. There are no long term studies on the effect of the Atkins diet and high cholesterol. For the most part, it is thought that the amount of 'good' cholesterol being consumed helps to decrease the amount of 'bad' cholesterol on a short-term basis. It is however, not recommended as a life plan for individuals. The longer the duration of the Atkins diet, the higher the risk of other diseases and health problems. Can the Atkins Diet be a High Cholesterol Diet Program? Many specialist claim that the Atkins diet is without a doubt a high cholesterol diet. It is very effective at increasing the HDL, and therefore rectifies the ratio of HDL to LDL. However, in the long term, it is thought that many unwanted side effects can occur. |