I was just wondering if anyone knew how long it takes for your cholesterol numbers to drop after starting a low carb lifestyle. I had my last test right before I started (about 4 weeks ago) and my next one is scheduled in two weeks. Is 6 weeks of low carbing a reasonable amount of time to see a downward trend in the numbers?

Hello,
I have only been doing this diet consistently for the last four or so months so I'm not an expert. However I did read somewhere online, perhaps at the Atkins website, that it could take as long as 2-3 months to start going down. I think most people see it go down within 6 weeks though. Also when you first start with the low carb diets your cholesterol will probably go up for a short time. I remember reading in my Atkins book that some people have to do a modified version of the diet to lower thier cholosterol because they are fat sensitive.
I am sorry that I can't give you direct quotes as I have loaned out my book.

Take care,
Lisa
Elisabeth Tilton

Atriana, in PP the Eades say wait 3 months to do your lipid profile. Initially the numbers can go up (especially if you didnt have high numbers to begin with) but by 3 months time they should stabilize. They also make mention that if only your LDL goes up that this is caused by a shift in the type of LDL you're making and it is acutally a good thing; you go from making the dense BB type LDL to the fluffly kind. I believe they discuss this on their FAQ page off www.eatprotein.com

Nat