Research Library

Change in Dietary Saturated Fat Intake Is Correlated With Change in Mass of Large Low-Density-Lipoprotein Particles in Men

Dreon, D.M., Fenstrom, H.A., Campos, H., et al., "Change in Dietary Saturated Fat Intake Is Correlated With Change in Mass of Large Low-Density-Lipoprotein Particles in Men," American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 67, 1998, pages 828-836.

The following information was written by Atkins professionals.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between dietary saturated fat intake and changes in size (subclasses) of low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. One hundred and three men completed an outpatient study for 12 weeks to determine whether nutrient composition was associated with changes in LDL subclasses. A low-fat (24% of calories from fat: 6% saturated; 59% carbohydrate) and high-fat (46% fat: 18% saturated; 39% carbohydrate) diet was followed for six weeks each. Blood samples were collected at the start of the study and after the sixth week of each diet. It’s been established that a predominance of small dense LDL particles (subclass pattern B) is associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction. Results revealed that changes in dietary saturated fat are associated with changes in LDL subclasses in healthy men. An increase in saturated fat was associated with increases with larger (lower risk) LDL particles and decreases in smaller (increased risk) LDL particles.

The following information was written by Atkins professionals.

These findings can be applied to the Atkins Principles of Good Health and Disease Prevention. As dietary saturated fat intake was increased, so too was the size of the LDL. A larger, less dense, buoyant LDL particle reduces risk of heart disease. Therefore, a carbohydrate controlled nutritional approach, high in saturated fat, should not impart negative effects on cardiovascular health.