Effect of a high energy, low carbohydrate diet on serum levels of lipids and lipoproteins.

The effect of a high energy, low carbohydrate (ketogenic) diet on serum levels of lipids and lipoproteins was studied in two normal individuals. A marked rise in serum levels of cholesterol and phospholipid occurred during the diet, but serum triglyceride levels remained within the normal range. High density lipoprotein cholesterol level did not change, and the rise in serum level of cholesterol levels with its distribution in lipoproteins, these observed changes pose a potential atherogenic risk. Serum lipid and lipoprotein levels reverted to normal on discontinuation of the diet. A modest weight loss observed during the diet was regained within 24 hours of the diet's cessation.