Nick Norwitz, a 25-year-old medical student at Harvard, decided to embark on a vegan diet as a health experiment. Known for his dedication to metabolic health, Nick wanted to explore the effects of a plant-based lifestyle on his own well-being. Over the course of two weeks, he switched from an almost entirely carnivore diet to a full vegan keto diet. His aim was to uncover the real impact of veganism on cholesterol levels and overall health. Nick's experiment gained attention for its surprising outcomes.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is often referred to as 'bad cholesterol.' Elevated levels of LDL are linked to various negative health effects, including an increased risk of heart disease. Doctors emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy LDL levels to support overall cardiovascular health. Nick was particularly interested in how his LDL levels would respond to a significant dietary shift. Understanding LDL's role was crucial to interpreting the results of his vegan experiment.

Initially, Nick followed a carnivore-like keto diet, consuming around 3,479 calories per day. This diet was rich in animal proteins and fats, keeping his weight stable. After a week, he transitioned to a vegan keto diet, reducing his intake to 2,054 calories daily. His plant-based regimen included tofu, vegan protein powder, green vegetables like spinach and Brussels sprouts, dark chocolate, and macadamia nut butter. He also used healthy oils such as macadamia, extra virgin olive, and toasted sesame oil for his primary fat sources.

Contrary to his expectations, Nick's LDL cholesterol levels increased during his vegan week. Despite consuming less total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, the switch to a vegan diet led to a surprising rise in his 'bad' cholesterol. This spike challenged the common belief that plant-based diets automatically lead to better cholesterol profiles. Nick noted that his stomach was upset during the vegan phase, attributing it to his unique biology and microbiome. The results highlighted that dietary changes can have complex effects on individual health.

Nick discovered that the increase in LDL cholesterol was linked to his significant drop in caloric intake. On the carnivore diet, he maintained his weight with a higher calorie consumption. However, the vegan keto diet reduced his daily intake by over a thousand calories, leading to a weight loss of 4.2 pounds. Research indicates an inverse relationship between BMI and LDL levels on low-carb diets, meaning leaner individuals may see higher LDL levels. Nick's findings suggest that calorie reduction and weight loss can influence cholesterol levels in unexpected ways.

Dr. Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist, cautioned against generalizing Nick's single-experiment findings. He emphasized that not all vegan diets are healthy, especially those high in processed foods and refined carbohydrates. Genetics also play a crucial role in how one's body manages cholesterol. Dr. Serwer advised those interested in veganism to focus on whole, minimally processed foods and incorporate healthy fats. Nick hopes his experiment encourages others to explore and understand their unique metabolic health, advocating for personalized dietary approaches.

Nick Norwitz's vegan experiment offers valuable insights into the complexities of dietary impacts on health. His unexpected rise in LDL cholesterol underscores the importance of individualized nutrition strategies. While plant-based diets can be beneficial, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Nick's journey highlights the need for curiosity and personal experimentation in understanding one's metabolic health. Ultimately, his findings advocate for tailored approaches to diet, encouraging individuals to consider their unique biological and lifestyle factors.