Reply to an Answer

Hi Mea,   I’ve read through your question twice and have to agree you’ve had some strange results!    Congratulations on dropping 30 pounds, this is a significant step in the right direction.    I believe the drop in HDL is probably related to cutting your fat intake too much.  Part of what raises HDL is healthy unsaturated fats, such as the fish oil supplement.  However, your total fat intake should be limited to 30% or less each day, saturated fat to less than 7%, and ideally zero trans fat.  Let’s say you eat 1800 calories on average each day, this would equal a fat intake of 60 grams.  I’d recommend increasing your fat intake from 20 grams to a range between 20-30% of your daily caloric intake.  BUT, increase the fat with healthy unsaturated fats, such as adding flaxseed to foods you cook, cooking with canola oil, etc. NOT with saturated fats (fatty steak, whole milk, ice cream, butter, etc.).   When it comes to carbs and heart disease, following a low carb diet is not necessary.  What’s important is to choose high fiber carbs, 100% whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole grain pasta, etc.  It is very important to limit simple sugars (soda, candy, baked goods) and carbs that provide a low nutritional value (such as potato chips).  Also, watch the portion size.  Carbs (potatoes, pasta, bread, etc) tend to be where people go overboard on serving sizes.   You’ve done a great job taking your situation seriously and making changes, so do not be discouraged.  You do not need to be concerned that your LDL is too low.  I agree you should be worried about HDL dropping.  Review this article for steps to increase HDL - Tips on How to Raise Your HDL.  Keep up the activity.  Make 30 minutes of activity 5 or more days/week your minimum.  If you can increase to 45 or 60 minutes some days, great!  Longer duration activity has the greatest impact on HDL and should be beneficial at lowering triglyceride levels.   All the best,   Lisa Nelson, RD, LN The Heart of Health – Heart Health and Weight Loss Tips