Why Moderation is Key: High Cholesterol Caused by a Carnivore Diet

A recent case study highlights why moderation matters when managing cholesterol. A man in Florida developed high levels of cholesterol, leading to yellowish deposits on his hands and elbows—a condition known as xanthelasma. Cardiologists at Tampa General Hospital linked this to his carnivore diet, which included large amounts of meat, cheese, and butter. Despite initially losing weight and feeling healthier, his high blood cholesterol put him at risk for serious health issues.

Xanthelasma is a deposit of cholesterol formed when normal cholesterol-carrying cells in the body malfunction. These deposits can appear anywhere but are most common around the eyes due to weakened blood vessels. While rare—about 1% of women and 0.3% of men—this condition is often caused by high blood cholesterol, which should be managed to prevent future cardiovascular problems. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. The case emphasizes the importance of avoiding diets high in fat and saturated fats to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Source: https://gizmodo.com/a-florida-mans-meat-cheese-and-butter-diet-caused-his-hands-to-seep-out-cholesterol-2000554027