Keto Diet – Key Insights – Pro’s & Con’s explored

In recent times, there has been a rapid rise in the number of people adopting the ‘Keto diet’. But what is often not brought to our attention is the downfalls and possible health risks associated with this diet, when not done under clinical supervision.

What health risks are associated with the keto diet, you ask?

Well, women tend to respond differently to men when on this diet. For women, it can cause irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea (defined as a women’s menstrual cycle being absent for 3 months or more).

Adopting the keto diet for extended periods of time can also cause gut issues and chronic constipation, due to the limited fibre in the diet. It can also cause a reduction in the richness and diversity of the gut flora.

As the keto diet is so restrictive, it is common for patients to experience vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Bone fractures have also been reported in patients who have been on this diet for a long period of time, along with kidney stones.

Further, eating large amount of saturated fats on the keto diet can also increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Often times an increase in lipids in the blood of patients on this diet can be seen as early as 6-8 weeks.

Low carb diets can be beneficial for some patients. Most definitely. But no one diet or lifestyle works for everyone. Every person has their own unique needs, and the real key to living a healthy life is to find a way of eating and living that works best for you!

This is an interview conducted by the Farmacy Approach owner and founder Merae Kayrouz with nutritionist and CEO of Me&My Wellness, Anthony Hartcher.

Photo by Liam Johnson on Unsplash