Experts Warn Keto Diet Linked to Increased Risk of Serious Conditions

Research has raised alarms about the popular Keto diet, suggesting it may significantly increase the risk of developing serious health issues, including diabetes, high cholesterol, and fatty liver disease. This diet, characterized by a low carbohydrate intake and high fat consumption, has gained traction among celebrities and health enthusiasts alike.

Scientists from the University of Utah conducted a study that evaluated the effects of a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet on mice. They found that those subjected to this diet exhibited concerning metabolic changes. The research indicated that the Keto diet could lead to insulin sensitivity problems and low insulin levels, both of which are linked to a heightened risk of diabetes.

Dr. Molly Gallop, a postdoctoral fellow involved in the research, stated, “We observed worsening glucose intolerance and impaired insulin secretion the longer the animals had been on a keto diet. Therefore, the keto diet as a treatment for metabolic disease should be questioned even if initial improvements in health are observed.” This highlights the potential long-term consequences of adhering to the Keto diet.

The Keto diet aims to induce a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This requires extreme restrictions on carbohydrate intake, often limiting daily consumption to between 20g and 50g. Foods such as bread, pasta, and starchy vegetables are typically eliminated, creating a reliance on fats for energy.

In the study published in the journal Science Advances, researchers fed one group of mice a diet consisting of 90% fat, while other groups received varying levels of fat. During the year-long follow-up, the mice on the Keto diet initially lost weight but developed significant health issues over time, including fatty liver disease and severe glucose intolerance.

The findings indicated that, while the Keto diet might prevent weight gain compared to a traditional high-fat diet, it resulted in severely impaired metabolic health. Male mice, in particular, showed higher cholesterol levels and experienced hepatic steatosis, a condition caused by excess fat accumulation in liver cells.

Despite these potential risks, the Keto diet remains popular, with numerous celebrities endorsing it. Figures such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston have publicly discussed their experiences with low-carb eating. Aniston, for example, has previously praised the diet but later noted the importance of moderation in carbohydrate consumption.

The Keto diet typically consists of approximately 75% fat, 20% protein, and only 5% carbohydrates. In contrast, guidelines from various health organizations, including the NHS, recommend a balanced diet comprising around 30% fat, 15% protein, and 55% carbohydrates. This disparity raises questions about the long-term sustainability and health implications of the Keto approach.

As the popularity of the Keto diet continues to grow, experts urge caution. The research underlines the necessity of further studies to explore the potential metabolic risks associated with long-term adherence to such a diet. Understanding these implications is crucial for individuals considering the Keto diet as a weight-loss strategy or a long-term dietary intervention.