The ketogenic diet is a popular eating plan that has been gaining traction in recent years. It is based on the idea of reducing carbohydrates and increasing fat intake, which can lead to weight loss and other health benefits. However, there are some special considerations to take into account when creating a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet. Condon and Kleinman both advise against following a ketogenic diet due to its lack of sustainability.
The diet restricts fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, which can help with long-term weight loss and maintain overall health. In addition, it has been found that 3.5 weeks on a ketogenic diet can have adverse effects on markers of bone modeling and remodeling.
Ketogenic
diets have been used to reduce the frequency of seizures and, more recently, have been promoted for a variety of health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and liver disease. They can provide short-term improvement and help control the symptoms of some chronic diseases.The diet has also been tested and used in closely monitored environments to screen for cancer, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. The most commonly used version of the ketogenic diet is a modified version that allows for more protein intake (20-30% of total calories). Studies have found that following the ketogenic diet can affect insulin sensitivity when participants are faced with an initial dietary meal (50% carbohydrate). While the authors were unable to assess the effectiveness of ketogenic diets for cancer survival, they found that minimal adverse effects were reported, suggesting that ketogenic diets might be safe in this population.
Additionally, fat mass did not change significantly during the first or second week of the ketogenic diet, while the low-fat diet caused significant body fat losses in both the first and second weeks. Most people who follow a ketogenic diet follow the so-called standard ketogenic diet plan, which provides approximately 10 percent of total calories from carbohydrates. It has been proposed that weight loss with ketogenic diets may be due to reduced appetite, an effect that is also seen in those who follow balanced diets that are very low in energy.
The Pros and Cons of Low-Carbohydrate or Ketogenic Diets
The ketogenic diet has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its potential health benefits. However, it is important to understand both the potential benefits and risks associated with this type of eating plan before starting it.Benefits:
- Weight Loss: The ketogenic diet can lead to weight loss due to its low carbohydrate content.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Studies have found that following the ketogenic diet can affect insulin sensitivity when participants are faced with an initial dietary meal (50% carbohydrate).
- Reduced Appetite: It has been proposed that weight loss with ketogenic diets may be due to reduced appetite.
- Control Symptoms of Chronic Diseases: Ketogenic diets have been used to reduce the frequency of seizures and help control the symptoms of some chronic diseases.
Risks:
- Lack of Sustainability: Condon and Kleinman both advise against following a ketogenic diet due to its lack of sustainability.
- Adverse Effects on Bone Modeling: It has been found that 3.5 weeks on a ketogenic diet can have adverse effects on markers of bone modeling and remodeling.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: This type of diet may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Overall, while there are potential benefits to following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, it is important to take into account any potential risks or side effects before starting this type of eating plan.
.
