The keto diet, which is based on giving up carbohydrates, can pose serious health risks.
Medianews.az, referring to Foodinfo.az, reports that nutritionist Yuliya Khlopova made a statement about this.
According to her, during this diet, the body enters a state of ketosis and begins to use fats as an energy source. However, this process places an additional burden on the liver and kidneys and causes a loss of electrolytes. At the same time, in some people, the level of LDL, known as "bad cholesterol," may significantly increase, which poses a risk to the cardiovascular system.
The specialist notes that the keto diet can also have a negative effect on intestinal health. As a result of reduced fiber intake, the composition of the gut microbiota changes, and the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids decreases. This is associated with a weakening of the protective function of the intestine and an increase in inflammatory processes.
Moreover, it is emphasized that the keto diet does not have a long-term effect. When carbohydrates are reintroduced into the diet, lost weight and water can quickly return to the body. For this reason, specialists recommend prioritizing a balanced and sustainable nutrition model.