Effects of a Low-carbohydrate, High-fat Diet

ABSTRACT

It appears that a low-carbohydrate high-fat diet is more effective in weight loss than conventional low-fat diets for short-term periods of approximately 6 months. However, for long-term periods of about 1 year or more, the effects of a low-carbohydrate diet are reduced and the difference in weight loss between low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets disappears. A low-carbohydrate diet can lead to low triglycerides and high HDL cholesterol, and may even lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol. The effects of a low-carbohydrate diet on glycemic control are not clear, and there is no effect on blood pressure. A low-carbohydrate diet may lead to cardiovascular disease, and can increase cardiovascular and all-cause mortality.