Recently published papers are shedding light on Lean Mass Hyper Responders, or LMHR. This metabolic phenotype – defined by levels of triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol on a low carbohydrate diet – is specific to individuals who are athletic or lean. One study of 548 people on low-carb diets found that both BMI and the triglyceride-to-HDL-C ratio were inversely associated with changes in LDL-C. Some have posited LMHRs over-consume saturated fat, but this is not consistent with the results of a published case study. Another paper hypothesizes that the Lipid Energy Model is involved. More research is underway that may help us understand the influence of elevated LDL-C on cardiovascular disease risk in LMHR.
Key Takeaways:
- New research papers have recently surfaced which provides information on a ketogenic diet-induced alteration in cardio-metabolic biomarkers that has come to be known as Lean Mass Hyper Responders.
- One study investigated included those who had low-carbohydrate diets. BMI was strongly inversely associated and there were no no difference from non-LMHR in terms of pre-low carb LDL-C levels.
- Another important study included a hypothesis paper on the Lipid Energy Model, which may explain the LMHR phenomenon and its relationship with BMI.
“One explanation frequently posed for explaining the elevated LDL-C in LMHRs is overconsumption of saturated fat.”
