Keto Diet Risks: What You Need to Know. So, what’s the deal with the keto diet?
According to Rachel Kleinman, a clinical dietitian, the keto diet is mostly used to help kids with epilepsy control their seizures. While some folks think it’s a miracle cure for obesity and diabetes, there isn’t a ton of research backing that up.
ALSO: Is Keto Diet Bad for Cholesterol?
Now, let’s talk ketosis.
Ketosis is like a survival mode your body goes into when it thinks there’s a famine. Instead of using sugar from carbs, your body breaks down fat into ketone bodies for fuel. But getting into this state is no joke – you gotta eat a whopping 75% of your calories from fat, drop your carb intake to 5%, and keep protein at 15%. It takes about 72 hours to kick in, and you’re pretty much all in or nothing.
So, what’s on the menu for keto enthusiasts? Fatty fish, eggs, meat, butter, oils, nuts, seeds, and low-carb veggies. And don’t forget those “fat bombs” like unsweetened chocolate or coconut oil to hit your daily fat goals.
But beware, keto-friendly foods like red meats and nuts can burn a hole in your wallet. Plus, those fancy keto-branded products are pricey and not necessary.
But is the keto diet healthy?
According to wellness dietitian Mary Condon, it might help you shed some pounds and lower blood sugar, but it’s more of a quick fix. And here’s the kicker – it’s not a long-term solution. You might end up gaining back the weight you lost and then some.
Condon’s advice? Always check in with your primary care doctor before jumping on any new diet bandwagon.
Now, let’s talk risks
Condon warns that if you’re on diabetic meds that mess with your blood sugar, you might need to adjust them real quick. Also, if you don’t know your heart-healthy fats, you could be loading up on saturated fats and boosting your risk of heart disease.
And is it safe? Well, the keto diet could mess with your blood pressure, give you kidney stones, make you constipated, and leave you with nutrient deficiencies. Plus, there’s an increased risk of heart disease.
Not to mention, strict diets like keto might lead to social isolation or messed-up eating habits. Stay away from keto if you’ve got issues with your pancreas, liver, thyroid, or gallbladder.
Starting on keto might also give you what they call the “keto flu” – think upset stomach, dizziness, low energy, and mood swings as your body adjusts to ketosis.
So, is the keto diet a bad idea?
Both Condon and Kleinman are giving it a thumbs down. Why? It’s just not realistic or sustainable. Keto cuts out fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and low-fat dairy – stuff that’s crucial for long-term weight loss and overall health.
Remember, as Kleinman puts it, there’s no one-size-fits-all diet. Do your homework, chat with a dietitian, talk to your doctor, and above all, keep it safe.
