What to Do If a Low-Carb Diet Raises Your Cholesterol

1. Reconsider your definition of 'low-carb'. Different people define "low-carb" in different ways. Some people only eat 50-100 grams of carbs per day, while others eat up to 200 grams. If you're on the higher end of the low-carb spectrum, it's possible you're not eating enough carbs to keep your cholesterol in check. Try reducing your carb intake by 25-50 grams per day and see if your cholesterol levels improve.

2. Increase your intake of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber can help to lower cholesterol by binding to it in the digestive tract and preventing it from being absorbed. Good sources of soluble fiber include oats, barley, beans, lentils, apples, and oranges. Aim for at least 5-10 grams of soluble fiber per day.

3. Start taking a fiber supplement. If you're having trouble getting enough soluble fiber from your diet, you can consider taking a fiber supplement. Look for a supplement that contains psyllium husk, inulin, or pectin. Follow the dosage instructions on the product label.

4. Add more healthy fats to your diet. Healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, can help to lower cholesterol. Good sources of healthy fats include olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds. Aim for 2-3 servings of healthy fats per day.

5. Reduce your intake of saturated and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats can raise cholesterol levels. Saturated fats are found in red meat, dairy products, and coconut oil. Trans fats are found in processed foods, such as margarine and fried foods. Limit your intake of saturated fats to 10% of your total calories and avoid trans fats altogether.

6. Get regular exercise. Exercise can help to lower cholesterol by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

7. Lose weight. If you're overweight or obese, losing weight can help to lower your cholesterol. Aim to lose 5-10% of your body weight.

8. Talk to your doctor. If your cholesterol levels remain high despite making these changes, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may recommend medication to lower your cholesterol.

Important Note:

Before starting a low-carb diet consult your doctor, Especially if you have pre-existing health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Can Low Blood Pressure a Stroke? 5 Most Common Low Carb Mistakes How to Avoid Them)