Carbohydrates' Role in Cholesterol Production

Carbohydrates' Role in Cholesterol Production

While it's true that consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.

It's important to understand that carbohydrates, specifically sugars, bread, and pasta, are also responsible for creating a significant amount of fat and cholesterol in the arteries.

Understanding De Novo Lipogenesis

De novo lipogenesis is the process by which the body converts carbohydrates into lipids, leading to increased cholesterol levels. When we consume carbohydrates, our body breaks them down into glucose, which is then used for energy.

However, when we consume more carbohydrates than our body needs for immediate energy, the excess glucose is converted into fatty acids and stored as triglycerides.

As time goes by, there’s a risk of packing on extra fat in the liver while also bumping up levels of “bad” cholesterol, known scientifically as LDL. Your arteries might get clogged with plaque from excess LDL cholesterol, setting the stage for heart disease down the line.

The Impact of Processed Carbohydrates

Processed carbohydrates, such as those found in white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, are particularly problematic when it comes to cholesterol production. These foods are quickly broken down into glucose, causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

In response to these spikes, the body releases insulin to help shuttle the glucose into cells for energy. However, when insulin levels remain consistently high due to a diet high in processed carbohydrates, the body becomes less sensitive to insulin's effects.

This can lead to insulin resistance, which is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Moreover, the fat and cholesterol created from carbohydrates are the unhealthy type that can lead to plaque buildup and hardened arteries.

This is because the liver packages excess glucose into very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles, which are then converted into LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream.