#255 - Why you might be a lean mass hyper-responder if you go keto but have high cholesterol | Dave Feldman, Dr. Nick Norwitz & Dr. Dominic D’Agostino
May 31, 2024
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Dave Feldman, Dr. Nick Norwitz & Dr. Dominic D’Agostino discuss the lean mass hyper-responder phenotype, Oreo vs statin study, role of exercise, alarming LDL levels, gym hypothesis, and the need for further research on ketogenic diets and cholesterol impact on health.
Lean mass hyper-responders may show high LDL due to efficient fatty acid utilization during exercise.
The Oreo vs. statin study highlighted controversial lipid changes and raised questions about lipid metabolism mechanisms.
Exercise intensity complicates interpreting LDL levels in lean mass hyper-responders, emphasizing the need for controlled research.
The 'gym hypothesis' delves into genetic factors influencing lean mass hyper-responder lipid responses, warranting further investigation.
Deep dives
Lean Mass Hyper-Sponders with High LDL and Exercise
Lean mass hyper-sponders may utilize fatty acids efficiently during exercise, resulting in high LDL levels due to triglyceride turnover. The lean and metabolically healthy individuals may demonstrate the lean mass hyper-sponder phenotype, potentially showing a triad of high LDL, high HDL, and low triglycerides. Exercise plays a role in potentially confounding interpretations, highlighting challenges in controlling all variables for comprehensive research.
Oreo vs. Statin Experiment and LDL Reduction Study
A provocative Oreo vs. statin experiment aimed to test the lipid energy model by acutely lowering LDL levels. The experiment showcased a significant LDL reduction using Oreo cookies compared to statin therapy. This study, although an N=1 design, raised discussions about lipid metabolism, potential mechanisms behind LDL changes, and the need for larger, controlled studies.
Implications of Cardiovascular Risk and Exercise
The discussion involving lean mass hyper-sponders and exercise introduces complexities in evaluating cardiovascular risk factors. The challenge of controlling variables like exercise intensity and its impact on LDL levels raises questions about the interpretation of high LDL in the context of metabolic health and physical activity. Scientists explore potential experiments to address criticisms and further understand the interplay between exercise, LDL levels, and cardiovascular health.
Metabolic Health, LDL, and Exercise Performance
Exploring metabolic health, LDL levels, and exercise performance uncovers nuanced relationships in research challenges. The intersection between high LDL, lean mass hyper-sponders, exercise, and cardiovascular risk presents complex considerations. Future studies may aim to elucidate the role of exercise in modulating LDL levels and its implications on overall health outcomes.
Exercise Effect on Lipids
When discussing exercise and its impact on lipid levels, the podcast delves into the significance of lean mass hyper-responders, individuals with high HDL and low triglycerides whose average HDL levels were around 60 with triglycerides approximately at 90. This group is likely characterized by a high level of physical activity, indicating a potential link between exercise and lipid profiles. The conversation raises questions about the relevance of exercise in mitigating risks associated with high LDL levels, shedding light on the complexities of how exercise influences lipid parameters.
Gym Hypothesis and Lean Mass Hyper-responders
The podcast introduces the 'gym hypothesis,' which explores the lean mass hyper-responder phenotype and its genetic underpinnings. By comparing individuals at a fictional gym setting, emphasizing runners over weightlifters and controlling their diet to mimic a carnivore diet, the podcast aims to understand the metabolic characteristics of lean mass hyper-responders. The discussion highlights the need for further research to differentiate between genetic anomalies and metabolic phenotypes to comprehend the physiological aspects contributing to this unique lipid response.
Challenges in Research and Collaborative Efforts
Towards the latter part of the podcast, the conversation shifts towards the challenges faced in disseminating research findings and engaging in scientific dialogues. The speakers express frustration with individuals misrepresenting their research, evading important discussions, and resorting to cyberbullying tactics. Despite these challenges, there is a strong emphasis on grassroots support and collaborative efforts in advancing scientific understanding, particularly in areas like cholesterol research and the broader application of ketogenic diets across various health conditions. The podcast underscores the importance of open dialogue, research collaboration, and perseverance in addressing misconceptions and promoting evidence-based discussions for meaningful scientific progress.
A lean mass hyper-responder is someone with high LDL and HDL cholesterol and low triglycerides. They are often lean and healthy people who present with strange and alarming lipid numbers after going on the ketogenic diet. Dave Feldman, Dr. Nick Norwitz & Dr. Dominic D’Agostino discuss the LMHR phenotype, whether it’s a concern, whether it’s rare, the Oreo vs statin study, how exercise levels might play a role, and why more research is needed.
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