Low Carbohydrate High Fat Research Articles

A low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet leads to unfavorable changes in blood lipid profiles compared to carbohydrate-rich diets with different glycemic indices in recreationally active men.

In addition to recent discussions of low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets (LCHF) from a performance perspective, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding influence of the combined effect of an exercise and nutritional intervention, which varies in carbohydrate (CHO) intake and glycemic indices, on blood lipid levels in recreationally active men. A total of 65 male runners (VO2 peak = 55 ± 8 mL·min-1·kg-1) completed a 10-week ad libitum nutritional regimen (LOW-GI: ≥ 65% low GI CHO per day, n = 24; HIGH-GI: ≥ 65% high GI CHO per day, n = 20; LCHF: ≤ 50 g CHO daily, n = 21) with a concurrent prescribed endurance training intervention. Fasting total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were determined before and after the intervention. Additionally, 24-h dietary recalls were completed twice weekly. Following the intervention, TC was significantly higher in LCHF (196 ± 37 mg·dL-1) compared to both LOW-GI (171 ± 41 mg·dL-1) and HIGH-GI (152 ± 28 mg·dL-1, p < 0.001). Additionally, LDL-C levels increased in LCHF (+17 ± 21 mg·dL-1, p = 0.001), while they decreased in both CHO groups (p < 0.05, respectively). Only the HIGH-GI group demonstrated a significant reduction in HDL-C (-3 ± 9 mg·dL-1, p = 0.006), while a decrease in TG was only significant in LOW-GI (-18 ± 36 mg·dL-1, p = 0.008). Although mean blood lipid levels remained within the normal range, the data indicate that a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet leads to unfavorable changes in individual blood lipid profiles compared to carbohydrate-rich diets. Therefore, it is recommended that the impact of a low-carbohydrate diet on blood lipids be considered when counseling active and healthy individuals.

Mixed methods evaluation of a low-carbohydrate high-fat nutrition education program for women from underserved communities in South Africa

South Africa faces a dual burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and communicable diseases, exacerbated by the high consumption of processed foods. The Eat Better South Africa (EBSA) program implements community-based low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) interventions to address these issues. This study evaluated the impact of EBSA’s 6-week program on the metabolic health and well-being of 32 women from underserved communities. It assessed outcomes before, immediately after, and six months post-intervention (n=21). Quantitative findings showed significant improvements in key health markers. After six months, participants experienced an average weight loss of 5.6 kg (+- 5.5), a BMI reduction of 2 kg/m2, and a waist circumference decrease of 6.6 cm. Blood pressure dropped by 10.7 mmHg on average, and fasting glucose levels decreased significantly. Reductions were also observed in triglycerides and HbA1c, indicating better glycemic control. Liver function markers (GGT, ALT) and inflammation markers (CRP) improved as well. Qualitative analysis highlighted several key themes: participants were motivated by a desire to improve their health and lose weight but faced challenges such as social pressures, community violence, and scepticism about the diet's affordability and sustainability. Despite these barriers, positive experiences like increased energy and better hunger control were reported. Participants expressed the need for ongoing support to maintain these changes, both from the program and from their community. These findings suggest that LCHF diets can effectively manage metabolic conditions, but long-term adherence is challenged by socio-economic factors. The study highlights the importance of community-based interventions and highlights the need for further research to develop sustainable health strategies in low-income settings.

Redox state in omnivore, vegan, vegetarian and low carbohydrate high fat diet

Redox state in omnivore, vegan, vegetarian and low carbohydrate high fat diet

The Efficacy of Ketogenic Diets (Low Carbohydrate; High Fat) as a Potential Nutritional Intervention for Lipedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Lipedema is a frequently misdiagnosed condition in women, often mistaken for obesity, which significantly deteriorates both quality of life and physical health. Recognizing the necessity for holistic treatment strategies, research has increasingly supported the integration of specific dietary approaches, particularly ketogenic diets focusing on low-carbohydrate and high-fat intake. to evaluate the impact of ketogenic diets on women with lipedema through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by reviewing published, peer-reviewed studies addressing the implications of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) ketogenic diet in managing lipedema following comprehensive scrutiny of digital medical databases, such as PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, and the Web of Science. This research was governed by specified parameters, including an established search string composed of search terms and an eligibility criterion (PICO) as denoted by the principal authors. Statistical analysis was carried out using RevMan 5.4.1 software with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale utilized for quality appraisal of the included studies. Seven studies reporting statistical outcomes were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis following a rigorous quality appraisal and data identification process. Three hundred and twenty-nine female participants were diagnosed with lipedema and treated using a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. Data analysis identified the high-fat diet with a mean study duration of 15.85 weeks. Mean Differences (MDs) on changes pre- and post-intervention showed significant reductions in BMI and total body weight [4.23 (95% CI 2.49, 5.97) p < 0.00001 and 7.94 (95% CI 5.45, 10.43) p < 0.00001 for BMI and body weight, respectively]. Other anthropometric measurements, such as changes in waist/hip circumferences and waist/hip ratios, showed a significant reduction in these parameters, with an MD of 8.05 (95% CI 4.66, 11.44) p < 0.00001 and an MD of 6.67 (95% CI 3.35, 9.99) p < 0.0001 for changes in waist and hip circumferences from baseline, respectively. Lastly, changes in pain sensitivity were statistically significant post-intervention [MD 1.12 (95% CI, 0.44, 1.79) p = 0.001]. All studies scored fair on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. despite the limited studies and low number of study participants, the review observed a significant reduction in anthropometric and body composition metrics, indicating a potentially beneficial association between LCHF ketogenic diets and lipedema management.

Effects of Single Low-Carbohydrate, High-Fat Meal Consumption on Postprandial Lipemia and Markers of Endothelial Dysfunction: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence.

Postprandial lipemia (PPL) is associated with increased risk of endothelial dysfunction (ED), a precursor of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The effects of low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diets on ASCVD risk are uncertain; therefore, gaining a greater understanding of LCHF meals on PPL may provide valuable insights. The current systematic review investigated the effects of single LCHF meal consumption on PPL and markers of ED. CINAHL Plus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for key terms related to endothelial function, cardiovascular disease, glycemia, lipemia, and the postprandial state with no restriction on date. Full-text articles were independently screened by 2 reviewers, of which 16 studies were eligible to be included in the current review. All trials reported a minimum analysis of postprandial triglycerides (PPTG) following consumption of an LCHF meal (<26% of energy as carbohydrate). Results were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Single-meal macronutrient composition was found to play a key role in determining postprandial lipid and lipoprotein responses up to 8 hours post-meal. Consumption of LCHF meals increased PPTG and may contribute to ED via reduced flow-mediated dilation and increased oxidative stress; however, energy and macronutrient composition varied considerably between studies. Consumption of an LCHF meal had a negative impact on PPL based on some, but not all, single-meal studies; therefore, the contribution of LCHF meals to cardiometabolic health outcomes remains unclear. Further research is needed on specific categories of LCHF diets to establish a causal relationship between postprandial modulation of lipids/lipoproteins and impaired vascular endothelial function. PROSPERO registration no. CRD 42023398774.

Hepatic stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 deficiency induces fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma-related gene activation under a high carbohydrate low fat diet

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) is a pivotal enzyme in lipogenesis, which catalyzes the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) from saturated fatty acids, whose ablation downregulates lipid synthesis, preventing steatosis and obesity. Yet deletion of SCD1 promotes hepatic inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress, raising the question of whether hepatic SCD1 deficiency promotes further liver damage, including fibrosis. To delineate whether SCD1 deficiency predisposes the liver to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we employed in vivo SCD1 deficient global and liver-specific mouse models fed a high carbohydrate low-fat diet and in vitro established AML12 mouse cells. The absence of liver SCD1 remarkably increased the saturation of liver lipid species, as indicated by lipidomic analysis, and led to hepatic fibrosis. Consistently, SCD1 deficiency promoted hepatic gene expression related to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC. Deletion of SCD1 increased the circulating levels of Osteopontin, known to be increased in fibrosis, and alpha-fetoprotein, often used as an early marker and a prognostic marker for patients with HCC. De novo lipogenesis or dietary supplementation of oleate, an SCD1-generated MUFA, restored the gene expression related to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC. Although SCD1 deficient mice are protected against obesity and fatty liver, our results show that MUFA deprivation results in liver injury, including fibrosis, thus providing novel insights between MUFA insufficiency and pathways leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC under lean non-steatotic conditions.

Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on Body Composition in Healthy, Young, Normal-Weight Women: A Randomized Controlled Feeding Trial.

This study investigates the effects of a ketogenic low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF) diet on body composition in healthy, young, normal-weight women. With the increasing interest in ketogenic diets for their various health benefits, this research aims to understand their impact on body composition, focusing on women who are often underrepresented in such studies. Conducting a randomized controlled feeding trial with a crossover design, this study compares a ketogenic LCHF diet to a Swedish National Food Agency (NFA)-recommended control diet over four weeks. Seventeen healthy, young, normal-weight women adhered strictly to the provided diets, with ketosis confirmed through blood β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was utilized for precise body composition measurements. To avoid bias, all statistical analyses were performed blind. The findings reveal that the ketogenic LCHF diet led to a significant reduction in both lean mass (-1.45 kg 95% CI: [-1.90;-1.00]; p < 0.001) and fat mass (-0.66 kg 95% CI: [-1.00;-0.32]; p < 0.001) compared to the control diet, despite similar energy intake and physical activity levels. This study concludes that while the ketogenic LCHF diet is effective for weight loss, it disproportionately reduces lean mass over fat mass, suggesting the need for concurrent strength training to mitigate muscle loss in women following this diet.

The impact of short-term eucaloric low- and high-carbohydrate diets on liver triacylglycerol content in males with overweight and obesity: a randomized crossover study

BackgroundIntrahepatic triacylglycerol (liver TG) content is associated with hepatic insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Liver TG content can be modulated within days under hypocaloric conditions. ObjectivesWe hypothesized that 4 d of eucaloric low-carbohydrate/high-fat (LC) intake would decrease liver TG content, whereas a high-carbohydrate/low-fat (HC) intake would increase liver TG content, and further that alterations in liver TG would be linked to dynamic changes in hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism. MethodsA randomized crossover trial in males with 4 d + 4 d of LC and HC, respectively, with ≥2 wk of washout. 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) was used to measure liver TG content, with metabolic testing before and after intake of an LC diet (11E% carbohydrate corresponding to 102 ± 12 {mean ± standard deviation [SD]) g/d, 70E% fat} and an HC diet (65E% carbohydrate corresponding to 537 ± 56 g/d, 16E% fat). Stable [6,6-2H2]-glucose and [1,1,2,3,3-D5]-glycerol tracer infusions combined with hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps and indirect calorimetry were used to measure rates of hepatic glucose production and lipolysis, whole-body insulin sensitivity and substrate oxidation. ResultsEleven normoglycemic males with overweight or obesity (BMI 31.6 ± 3.7 kg/m2) completed both diets. The LC diet reduced liver TG content by 35.3% (95% confidence interval: −46.6, −24.1) from 4.9% [2.4–11.0] (median interquartile range) to 2.9% [1.4–6.9], whereas there was no change after the HC diet. After the LC diet, fasting whole-body fat oxidation and plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate concentration increased, whereas markers of de novo lipogenesis (DNL) diminished. Fasting plasma TG and insulin concentrations were lowered and the hepatic insulin sensitivity index increased after LC. Peripheral glucose disposal was unchanged. ConclusionsReduced carbohydrate and increased fat intake for 4 d induced a marked reduction in liver TG content and increased hepatic insulin sensitivity. Increased rates of fat oxidation and ketogenesis combined with lower rates of DNL are suggested to be responsible for lowering liver TG. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04581421.

Does sex differ the relationship between macronutrients adequacy and aerobic power?

Background: Sex is a recognized factor influencing physiological and biochemical changes in response to physical activity and nutrient intake. Dietary intake may impact athletic performance, including aerobic power. However, these effects may be sex-dependent. Aims: to evaluate pattern and adequacy of macronutrient intake; to evaluate predicted VO2max, and investigate potential correlations between macronutrients and aerobic power, stratified by sex. Subjects and Methods: A correlational design was employed, targeting recreational athletes. Participants (n = 52) were recruited using purposive sampling (aerobic dancers n = 15, runners n = 18, pesilat n = 10, badminton players n = 9). Three-day food records were collected and analyzed using the NutriSurvey application to determine dietary intake and macronutrient composition. Predicted VO2max was assessed via the Beep Test. The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Health Research Ethics Commission. Bivariate correlation analysis was conducted to explore associations between macronutrients and aerobic power. Results: Mean daily energy intake was 1,417.19 ± 56.12 kcal/day distributed as carbohydrate (46%), fat (40%), and protein (14%). The majority of participants (57.69%, n=30) demonstrated average VO2max, while the remaining 42.31% (n = 22) exhibited below-average values. Interestingly, a significant negative moderate correlation (r -.565 as p &lt; 0.05) was observed between fat intake and predicted VO2max in females only. No significant correlations were identified between carbohydrate or protein intake and predicted VO2max for either sex. Conclusion: Despite consuming a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet, participants maintained adequate energy intake. Notably, fat intake in females displayed a strong negative association with predicted VO2max. Keywords: Sports for all, public health nutrition, cardiorespiratory endurance, physical fitness.

Role of gastrointestinal appetite hormones in the success of body mass loss during interventions based on exercise combined with restricted energy intake diets with different fat and carbohydrate content

Restriction of energy intake is an effective strategy for achieving body mass loss(1). However, it leads to gastrointestinal appetite hormonal changes, which are expected to enhance hunger, reduce satiety, and possibly impair the ability to comply with prescribed intervention(2). Exercise interventions, on the other hand, did not modify gastrointestinal appetite hormones(3) and there is some evidence that postprandial appetite hormone responses after a low carbohydrate-high fat meal (LCHF) are more favorable than after high carbohydrate-low fat meal (HCLF) meal (4). This study investigated how energy-restricted diets based on LCHF and HCLF meals and combined with exercise affect body weight, and gastrointestinal appetite hormones and explored the relationship between body mass changes and changes in gastrointestinal appetite hormones.Twenty-seven overweight and obese females (age: 35 ± 9.35 years, BMI: 31.64 ± 5.08 kg/m2) completed a randomized parallel design study and underwent a 4-week intervention consisting of brisk walking combined with either consumption of calorie-restricted HCLF or LCHF diet. Participants underwent a 5-hour experimental trial before and after the interventions, which included body weight measurements and fasting and postprandial blood sample collection for gastrointestinal appetite hormone measurements.Both interventions significantly reduced body mass (HCLF group, −2.1 ± 1.7 Kg: LCHF group, -1.7 ± 1.7 Kg, P &lt; 0.05 for both groups), but changes between the groups were not significant (P&gt;0.05). Body mass changes were individual and ranged from -0.4 kg to −5.3 kg and from +1 kg to −4.4 kg in the HCLF and LCHF groups, respectively. The interventions had no impact on mean values of time- averaged postprandial concentrations of ghrelin, PYY, and GLP-1 but there was large individual variability in changes of these hormones. Results combined from both groups revealed that changes in ghrelin ranged from +549.3 to -407.7 pg/ml, in PYY from −132.5 to + 96.4 pg/ml and in GLP-1 from −6.6 to +19.5 pg/ml. Correlation, investigated on the data from both groups combined, between changes in body mass and changes in ghrelin (r = −0.18, P= 0.41), PYY (r = −0.04, P =0.87), and GLP-1 (r = 0.11, P = 0.64) were not significant.In conclusion, the extent of body mass loss during interventions based on restricted energy intake diets combined with exercise is not related to the carbohydrate and fat content of the diet. Our findings also suggest that the success of body mass loss cannot be predicted by changes in postprandial concentrations of gastrointestinal appetite hormones.

Effect of a high carbohydrate pre-exercise meal on metabolic and performance-related parameters in male athletes following two different strategies to improve fat utilization: An exploratory examination

The purpose of this additional examination of a larger intervention was to determine the effects of a carbohydrate-rich pre-exercise meal on metabolic and performance-related parameters in a group of male endurance athletes, who had previously followed either a high fat low carbohydrate (HFLC; n = 6) or high carbohydrate low glycaemic (LGI; n = 6) diet for 4 weeks. Participants continued their regular training routine during the intervention. Respiratory exchange ratio (RER), lactate concentrations ([La−]), substrate oxidation rates at rest and during a cycle ergometry with incremental workload were determined in the fasted state and 2 h after consuming a carbohydrate-rich (2 g per kg of body mass) pre-exercise meal. Power output at lactate thresholds, peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), absolute and relative peak power during the incremental test were assessed. After consuming the pre-exercise meal, both groups showed increased levels of RER, [La−] and carbohydrate oxidation at rest and during the incremental test (p < 0.05; Cohen’s d > 0.8), and an improved V̇O2peak (p < 0.05; Cohen’s d > 0.5). Rm ANOVA revealed significant group differences in metabolic parameters. Despite meaningful baseline differences ([La−]: p = 0.133; ηp2 = 0.185; RER: p = 0.037; ηp2 = 0.367; carbohydrate oxidation: p = 0.041; ηp2 = 0.355) upregulation of carbohydrate metabolism was more pronounced in the LGI subgroup compared to the HFLC group after 4-weeks intervention, in both fasted ([La−]: p = 0.130; ηp2 = 0.214; RER: p = 0.001; ηp2 = 0.713; carbohydrate oxidation: p = 0.001; ηp2 =0.684) and postprandial states ([La−]: p = 0.036; ηp2 =0.369; RER: p = 0.001; ηp2 =0.705; carbohydrate oxidation: p = 0.001; ηp2 =0.665). Peak power during the final incremental test was slightly higher in the LGI subgroup compared with the HFLC subgroup (p = 0.320; ηp2 = 0.100). In this group of male endurance athletes, a LGI diet seemed to result in more favourable performance metrics as compared to a HFLC diet despite increases in carbohydrate availability before undertaking the performance test likely due to the ability to sustain higher workloads in training.

Cross-Sectional Associations between Nutrient Intake and Tooth Decay in Older Australian Men: The Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project

Poor nutrition is a risk factor for dental decay in younger people. However, except for sugar, it is unclear if this is true in older age groups. The aim of this study was to analyze the possible associations between overall dietary intake of nutrients and diet quality and the presence of dental decay in community-dwelling older men. A cross-sectional analysis of a longitudinal study with a standardized validated diet history assessment and comprehensive oral health examination in 520 community-dwelling men (mean age: 84 years) participating in the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project. Nutrient reference values were used to determine if individual micronutrients and macronutrients were meeting recommendations. Acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges (AMDRs) were attained for fat and carbohydrate intakes and were incorporated into a dichotomous variable to determine if the participants were consuming a high fat-low carbohydrate diet. Diagnosis of coronal caries was based on visual criteria and inspection and was completed on each of the five coronal surfaces. Root surface caries was textual changes across four root surfaces. This diagnosis was used to categorize participants by the presence and severity of coronal and root caries. The adjusted logistic regression showed not meeting the recommended intakes for thiamin (odds ratio [OR]: 2.32 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15–4.67), and zinc (OR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.71–6.48) were associated with presence of severe root decay. Adjusted analysis also showed that participants who were outside the recommended AMDR for fat (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.38–0.98) and those who consumed a high fat and low carbohydrate diet (OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.35–0.91) were less likely to have coronal tooth decay. Our study shows associations between micronutrients and macronutrients and coronal and root surface decay. Although this study cannot prescribe causality or be generalized to all older adults, diet has a possible association with dental decay in older men.

Effectiveness of high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets on body composition and maximal strength after 15 weeks of resistance training

PurposeThe aim of this study was to compare High Carbohydrates Low Fat (HCLF) and Low Carbohydrate High Fat (LCHF) diets in terms of changes in body composition and maximal strength. Patients/methodsThe study involved 48 men aged 25 ​± ​2.5, divided into two groups, one of which (n ​= ​23) was following the LCHF diet and the other (n ​= ​25) the HCLF diet. Both groups performed the same resistance training protocol for 15 weeks. Maximal strength in squat, bench press and deadlift was assessed pre- and post-intervention. Measurements of selected body circumferences and tissue parameters were made using the multifunctional, multi-frequency, direct bioelectric impedance InBody 770 analyzer from InBody Co., Ltd (Cerritos, California, USA). The team with the necessary qualifications and experience in research performed all the measurements and maintained participants’ oversight throughout the entire length of the study. ResultsBoth nutritional approaches were effective in terms of reducing body fat mass. The HCLF group achieved greater skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Significant decreases in body circumferences, especially in the abdominal area, were observed for both dietary approaches. Maximal strength significantly increased in the HCLF group and decreased in the LCHF group. ConclusionHolistic analysis of the results led to the conclusion that both dietary approaches may elicit positive adaptations in body composition. The two approaches constitute useful alternatives for both recreational exercisers and physique athletes with body composition goals.

Comprehensive analysis of systemic, metabolic, and molecular changes following prospective change to low-carbohydrate diet in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in India.

South Asians, especially Indians, face higher diabetes-related risks despite lower body mass index (BMI) compared with the White population. Limited research connects low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF)/ketogenic diets to metabolic changes in this group. Systematic studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of the diet, such as ocular health. In this prospective, observational study, 465 candidates aged 25-75 years with type 2 diabetes included with institutional ethics approval. A total of 119 subjects were included in the final study assessment based on the availability of pathophysiological reports, tears, and blood samples collected at baseline, 3rd, and 6th months. Serum and tear samples were analyzed by an enzyme-linked lectinsorbent assay, to examine secreted soluble protein biomarkers, such as IL-1β (interleukin 1 Beta), IL-6 (interleukin 6), IL-10 (interleukin 10), IL-17A (interleukin 17A), MMP-9 (matrix metalloproteinase 9), ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1), VEGF-A (vascular endothelial growth factor A), and TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-alpha). A Wilcoxon test was performed for paired samples. Spearman's correlation was applied to test the strength and direction of the association between tear biomarkers and HbA1c. p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant. After a 3- and 6-month LCHF intervention, fasting blood sugar decreased by 10% (Δ: -14 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) and 7% (Δ: -8 mg/dL; p < 0.0001), respectively. Glycated hemoglobin A1c levels decreased by 13% (Δ: -1%; p < 0.0001) and 9% (Δ: -0.6%; p < 0.0001). Triglycerides reduced by 22% (Δ: -27 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) and 14% (Δ: -19 mg/dL; p < 0.0001). Total cholesterol reduced by 5.4% (Δ: -10.5 mg/dL; p < 0.003) and 4% (Δ: -7 mg/dL; p < 0.03), while low-density lipoprotein decreased by 10% (Δ: -11.5 mg/dL; p < 0.003) and 9% (Δ: -11 mg/dL; p < 0.002). High-density lipoprotein increased by 11% (Δ: 5 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) and 17% (Δ: 8 mg/dL; p < 0.0001). At the first follow-up, tear proteins such as ICAM-1, IL-17A, and TNF-α decreased by 30% (Δ: -2,739 pg/mL; p < 0.01), 22% (Δ: -4.5 pg/mL; p < 0.02), and 34% (Δ: -0.9 pg/mL; p < 0.002), respectively. At the second follow-up, IL-1β and TNF-α reduced by 41% (Δ: -2.4 pg/mL; p < 0.05) and 34% (Δ: -0.67 pg/mL; p < 0.02). Spearman's correlation between HbA1c and tear analytes was not statistically significant. The LCHF diet reduces the risk of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. Changes in tear fluid protein profiles were observed, but identifying promising candidate biomarkers requires validation in a larger cohort.

Preventive effect of low-carbohydrate high-fat dietary pattern on liver disease caused by alcohol consumption via a 6pgd-involved mechanism in mice.

A low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF) dietary pattern has been reported to improve chronic metabolic diseases. However, whether and how the LCHF diet affects the pathological progression in patients with alcohol-related liver diseases (ALD) is largely unknown. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the LCHF diet on ALD and clarify its potential mechanism(s). The ALD model was established by feeding C57BL/6N mice with a Lieber-DeCarli liquid alcohol diet with a modified carbohydrate/fat ratio under an isoenergetic pattern. After an eight-week intervention, we observed that the LCHF diet significantly reduced alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis and liver injury, along with improved lipid metabolic-related gene disorders and redox imbalance. The alcohol-stimulated increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine cytokines expression, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, was markedly reversed by the LCHF diet. Liver transcriptome sequencing and qPCR validation showed that twenty-four alcohol-disturbed genes were significantly reversed by LCHF-diet intervention. The top differentially expressed genes were selected for further investigation. Among them, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) was significantly up-regulated by alcohol treatment in both the liver and cultured hepatocytes. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that 6PGD was positively associated with hepatic steatosis, liver injury, and oxidative stress indexes. In vitro, the 6PGD knockdown ameliorated alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity and intracellular lipid accumulation, as well as lipid metabolic-related gene disorders, implying the involvement of 6PGD in LCHF-protected ALD. In conclusion, LCHF diet intervention alleviated chronic alcohol consumption-induced liver dysfunction in mice. 6PGD is a potential novel target for ALD prevention that contributes to LCHF-improved ALD. A LCHF diet might be a promising choice for ALD management.

A lipidomic and metabolomic signature of a very low-carbohydrate high-fat diet and high-intensity interval training: an additional analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial

IntroductionRegular physical activity and dietary variety are modifiable and influential factors of health outcomes. However, the cumulative effects of these behaviors are not well understood. Metabolomics may have a promising research potential to extend our knowledge and use it in the attempts to find a long-term and sustainable personalized approach in exercise and diet recommendations.ObjectiveThe main aim was to investigate the effect of the 12 week very low carbohydrate high fat (VLCHF) diet and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on lipidomic and metabolomic profiles in individuals with overweight and obesity.MethodsThe participants (N = 91) were randomly allocated to HIIT (N = 22), VLCHF (N = 25), VLCHF + HIIT (N = 25) or control (N = 19) groups for 12 weeks. Fasting plasma samples were collected before the intervention and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks. The samples were then subjected to untargeted lipidomic and metabolomic analyses using reversed phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry.ResultsThe VLCHF diet affected plasma lipids considerably while the effect of HIIT was unremarkable. Already after 4 weeks of intervention substantial changes of plasma lipids were found in both VLCHF diet groups. The changes persisted throughout the entire 12 weeks of the VLCHF diet. Specifically, acyl carnitines, plasmalogens, fatty acyl esters of hydroxy fatty acid, sphingomyelin, ceramides, cholesterol esters, fatty acids and 4-hydroxybutyric were identified as lipid families that increased in the VLCHF diet groups whereas lipid families of triglycerides and glycerophospholipids decreased. Additionally, metabolomic analysis showed a decrease of theobromine.ConclusionsThis study deciphers the specific responses to a VLCHF diet, HIIT and their combination by analysing untargeted lipidomic and metabolomic profile. VLCHF diet caused divergent changes of plasma lipids and other metabolites when compared to the exercise and control group which may contribute to a better understanding of metabolic changes and the appraisal of VLCHF diet benefits and harms.Clinical Trial Registry numberNCT03934476, registered 1st May 2019 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03934476?term=NCT03934476&draw=2&rank=1.

Low Carbohydrate, High Fat Diet Alters the Oral Microbiome without Negating the Nitrite Response to Beetroot Juice Supplementation.

A low carbohydrate, high fat (LCHF) diet in athletes increases fat oxidation but impairs sports performance, potentially due to impaired exercise economy. Dietary nitrate supplementation can improve exercise economy via an increase in nitric oxide production, which is initiated by the reduction of nitrate to nitrite within the oral cavity. This reaction is dependent on the presence of nitrate-reducing oral bacteria, which can potentially be altered by dietary changes, including a LCHF diet. This study explored the effect of a LCHF diet on the oral microbiome and subsequent changes to plasma nitrite concentration following nitrate supplementation. Following five days of LCHF or high carbohydrate (HCHO) control dietary intervention, highly trained male race walkers consumed 140 mL beetroot juice containing 8.4 mmol nitrate; they then provided (a) blood samples for plasma nitrate and nitrite analysis and (b) saliva samples for 16S rRNA sequencing of the oral microbiome. The LCHF diet (n = 13) reduced oral bacterial diversity and changed the relative abundance of the genera Neisseria (+10%), Fusobacteria (+3%), Prevotella (-9%), and Veillonella (-4%), with no significant changes observed following the HCHO diet (n = 11). Following beetroot juice ingestion, plasma nitrite concentrations were higher for the LCHF diet compared to the HCHO diet (p = 0.04). However, the absence of an interaction with the trial (pre-post) (p = 0.71) suggests that this difference was not due to the dietary intervention. In summary, we found an increase in plasma nitrate and nitrite concentrations in response to nitrate supplementation independent of diet. This suggests the oral microbiome is adaptive to dietary changes and can maintain a nitrate reduction capacity despite a decrease in bacterial diversity following the LCHF diet.

The Benefits of Low-Carbohydrate, High-Fat (LCHF) Diet on Body Composition, Leg Volume, and Pain in Women with Lipedema.

This study aimed to assess the potential benefits of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet on body composition, leg volume, and pain reduction in women with lipedema compared to overweight or women with obesity. The study included 113 female participants, 56 with lipedema and 57 with overweight/obesity (BMI >25 kg/m2) without lipedema. All subjects were prescribed a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet with anti-inflammatory properties to adhere to for a duration of 7 months. Measurements of anthropometry, body weight, composition, and pain (VAS) were conducted at the study's commencement and conclusion. 52 participants completed the study. Both groups experienced a similar weight reduction, amounting to 12.9% compared to the baseline (-10.8 kg vs. -11.9 kg; p = 0.14, for lipedema and women with overweight/obesity, respectively). The most reduction was in body fat mass. Improvements in various parameters were observed, except for ankle circumferences, which decreased more in the lipedema group. Lipedema participants showed significantly reduced pain levels following the LCHF diet (4.6 ± 2.6 vs 3.0 ± 2.3; p < 0.001). The LCHF diet holds promise for weight loss, body fat reduction, leg volume management, and pain alleviation in women with lipedema. These findings provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies for lipedema management.

Inflammatory and intestinal permeability biomarkers in healthy participants on long term vegan, vegetarian, omnivore and low-carbohydrate high-fat diet

Vegan, vegetarian and low-carbohydrate high fat (LCHF) diets can all offer several health benefits, if food choices are appropriate. In most studies examining their effects on systemic inflammation, participants were either overweight, on a weight loss programme or not matched for BMI, or had a pre-existing condition such as type 2 diabetes mellitus or hypertension. Little is known about the effects of dietary patterns on healthy and normal weight individuals. The aim of the present study was therefore to assess and directly compare inflammatory and intestinal permeability status in healthy participants following aforementioned or omnivore diet for at least 6 months. In this cross-sectional study, we measured the inflammatory biomarkers IL-6, TNF-α and CRP, and the markers of intestinal permeability LBP and zonulin, along with the analysis of lifestyle aspects, dietary intakes and physical activity, in 89 healthy participants. The groups were matched for sex, age and BMI. There were no differences in any of the measured parameters between the four groups and we found no strong correlations with dietary intakes. Using cluster analysis, participants were divided into eight clusters with more or less favourable inflammatory profiles; all clusters contained representatives of all patterns and all patterns were represented in each cluster. Significant differences between clusters were in the intake of mono-unsaturated fatty acids, ω-3/ω-6 ratio, phase angle and working two shifts. In healthy, normal-weight individuals, inflammatory status therefore does not depend on the dietary pattern itself, but is rather more complexly regulated and associated with dietary and non-dietary factors.

Molecular Study of the Protective Effect of a Low-Carbohydrate, High-Fat Diet against Brain Insulin Resistance in an Animal Model of Metabolic Syndrome.

Brain insulin resistance is linked to metabolic syndrome (MetS). A low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet has been proposed to have a protective effect. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the brain insulin resistance markers in a rat animal model of MetS and the protective effects of the LCHF diet. Four groups of male rats (10/group) were created. Group I (Control) was fed a regular diet. Groups II-IV were injected with dexamethasone (DEX) to induce MetS. Group II received DEX with a regular diet. Group III (DEX + LCHF) rates were fed a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, while Group IV (DEX + HCLF) rats were fed a high-carbohydrate, low-fat (HCLF) diet. At the end of the four-week experiment, HOMA-IR was calculated. Moreover, cerebral gene expression analysis of S-100B, BDNF, TNF-α, IGF-1, IGF-1 R, IGFBP-2, IGFBP-5, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 was carried out. In the DEX group, rats showed a significant increase in the HOMA-IR and a decrease in the gene expression of IGF-1, IGF-1 R, IGFBP-2, IGFBP-5, BDNF, and Bcl2, with a concomitant rise in S100B, TNF-α, Bax, and caspase-3. The LCHF diet group showed a significantly opposite effect on all parameters. In conclusion, MetS is associated with dysregulated cerebral gene expression of BDNF, S100B, and TNF-α and disturbed IGF-1 signaling, with increased apoptosis and neuroinflammation. Moreover, the LCHF diet showed a protective effect, as evidenced by preservation of the investigated biochemical and molecular parameters.