Genetic factors influence cholesterol response to low-carb diets
Why do some people thrive on low-carb diets while others experience a spike in their cholesterol levels? New research presented at NUTRITION 2026 suggests the answer lies in your genetic makeup. While low-carbohydrate diets are often touted for weight loss and blood sugar management, the impact on LDL cholesterol remains inconsistent across the population.
Researchers analyzed data from the DIETFITS trial, which followed hundreds of adults on either low-carb or low-fat diet plans over a full year. The findings indicate that certain individuals possess a genetic predisposition that makes them more sensitive to saturated fat. When these specific individuals follow a low-carb diet that happens to be high in saturated fats, their LDL cholesterol levels are more likely to rise.
This study challenges the idea that dietary advice should be one-size-fits-all. Dr. Alexa Barad of the Stanford University School of Medicine notes that genetic background plays a primary role in how the body processes these fats. For some, a low-carb approach is effective with no negative impact on heart health markers. For others, the same dietary shift may trigger an unwanted increase in LDL cholesterol.
If you are considering a low-carb lifestyle, the researchers suggest being mindful of the quality of your fats. Replacing butter, beef tallow, and processed meats with healthier fat sources like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil can help reduce the risk of an adverse cholesterol response. The study highlights the value of monitoring your own body rather than assuming standard dietary results apply to everyone equally.
As genomic research becomes more accessible, clinicians may eventually use polygenic scores to provide personalized dietary guidance. For now, the takeaway is simple. Pay attention to how your body responds to your food choices. If your cholesterol numbers are moving in the wrong direction, it may be time to shift your focus from total carbohydrates toward the specific types of fats on your plate.