Effect of Diet Induced Ketosis on LDL Turnover Rates

There have been concerning case reports of marked elevations of LDL-c in some individuals consuming a KD and Dr. Lewis has been referred a number of these cases to his lipid clinic, some of whom have had extreme elevations of LDL that mimic familial hypercholesterolemia. These marked elevations of LDLc are unique to a ketogenic diet and far exceed the typical mild elevations seen in those consuming a high fat, low carbohydrate LGIT. The degree of elevation of LDL-c suggests that ketosis per se may impair LDL receptor-mediated LDL particle clearance. This clinical observation is a concerning and clinically important issue since millions of people are consuming this popular diet. There are currently no studies that have examined the mechanism of the LDL-raising effect of a ketogenic diet.