Are Diets High In Protein Associated With Low Blood Cholesterol Levels?

If you struggle with weight or cholesterol levels, you have probably considered following a diet high in protein. Proponents of high-protein diets claim that restricting your carbohydrate intake helps you lose weight faster, explains Dr. Michael Hall, a family physician for DuBois Regional Medical Center in DuBois, Pa. He goes on to state that your heart and other organs depend on the types of protein and carbohydrates you eat.

Description

High-protein diets consist of consuming between 30 and 50 percent of your calories from protein sources. A diet high in protein restricts the consumption of carbohydrates and puts that body into a state of ketosis, which causes the body to break down fat stores, explains Hall. In a state of ketosis, your hunger level declines and you consume fewer calories. Together, this equals both fat and weight loss. Hall also advises that the amount of cholesterol and type of fat you consume on this type of diet will impact your cholesterol levels.

Fat Intake

A diet high in protein can also mean a diet high in fat. Animal sources of protein contain saturated fat, which can elevate cholesterol levels, advises the American Heart Association. Poultry and fish contain less saturated fat than red meat, such as beef or pork. If you must eat red meat, chose the leanest cuts possible and only eat it occasionally. Vegetable sources of protein, such as beans, whole grains and nuts, help limit your saturated fat intake while providing your body with fiber, vitamins and minerals, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

Scientific Evidence

High-protein, low-fat diets may lower the level of cholesterol in the blood. The decrease in carbohydrate consumption caused by these diets lowers the level of triglycerides in the blood, explains Peter M. Clifton and Jennifer Keogh in an article published in the December 2007 issue of "Current Atherosclerosis Reports." They go on to say that the effect of a high-protein diet on cholesterol levels depends on the amount of carbohydrate restriction and the intake of saturated fat. A diet lower in saturated fat and simple carbohydrates will have a greater cholesterol-lowering effect. The article shows that a diet high in saturated fat may actually cause an increase in low-density lipoprotein, the bad cholesterol, even if you lose weight.

Dangers

A diet high in protein may cause health problems if followed for an extended period of time. If the high-protein diet restricts your carbohydrate intake by too much, you may not consume enough fiber or nutrients, which can increase your risk of constipation, diverticulitis and some cancers, advises MayoClinic.com. A high-protein diet may also cause or worsen problems with your liver or kidneys because of the waste products produced through protein metabolism.

Considerations

Talk to your doctor before starting a diet high in protein. If you choose to follow a diet high in protein, choose your foods wisely. Consume carbohydrates that contain a lot of fiber and other nutrients, such as whole grains, fruits or vegetables; and select proteins low in saturated fat. Hall advises lowering cholesterol through exercise and a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat.