Glycemic Index and Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
Not that this is a big surprise, but eating refined carbs (known to have high glycemic indices–the rate at which sugar shows up in the bloodstream after ingestion of specifc types of carbs) will lower HDL levels in the blood. In addition, insulin (produced in higher levels with higher glycemic index foods) will stimulate HMG CoA reductase; the enzyme that makes cholesterol in our bodies. Higher total cholesterol and lower HDL…the perfect prescription for heart disease. Just for added measure, refined carbs are low in folic acid and B6; thus potentially having a negative effect on homocysteine levels. Glycemic Index and Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentration Among US Adults
