Madeleine Hull
The ketogenic diet is a popular, high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has gained traction in recent years for its health and weight-loss benefits. While the keto diet is generally considered safe and healthy, there are concerns about its impact on cholesterol levels and heart health. The keto diet is associated with a significant increase in fat consumption, which can lead to a rise in cholesterol levels, particularly bad LDL cholesterol. However, the available research on the link between keto and cholesterol is mixed, and some studies suggest that the keto diet can help lower total cholesterol and LDL levels while increasing good HDL cholesterol.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effect on cholesterol levels | The keto diet may cause high cholesterol in some people. The research on this is mixed, with some studies showing an increase in LDL cholesterol levels, and others showing a decrease. |
| Effect on weight loss | The keto diet is often used for weight loss, and some studies have shown that it can be effective in this regard. |
| Risks | The keto diet may not be suitable for people with kidney disease, liver disease, familial hypercholesterolemia, or fat-induced lipemia. It may also increase the risk of vitamin deficiencies, liver disease, kidney stones, and heart disease. |
| Recommended foods | Avocados, olive oil, nuts, nut butters, lean meats, fish, plant-based oils, low-fat milk, and certain polyunsaturated fats such as omega-3s. |
| Foods to avoid | Artificial trans fats, processed meats, fried foods, and saturated fats. |
What You'll Learn
- The keto diet may not be suitable for people with high cholesterol
- The keto diet may not be suitable for people with fat-induced lipemia
- The keto diet may not be suitable for people with familial hypercholesterolemia
- The keto diet may not be suitable for people with type 1 diabetes
- The keto diet may not be suitable for people with gallbladder issues
The keto diet may not be suitable for people with high cholesterol
The concern is that the keto diet's high-fat content may lead to a spike in cholesterol levels, specifically low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, which could increase the risk of heart disease. However, the effect of keto on cholesterol levels is not straightforward, and the impact appears to depend on the types of fat consumed and individual genetic factors.
Some studies have shown that the keto diet can increase LDL cholesterol levels, particularly when the diet includes a lot of saturated fat. Saturated fat is found in animal and dairy products like beef, pork, butter, and coconut oil. On the other hand, unsaturated fats, such as those found in avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon, are associated with lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Genetics also plays a role in cholesterol levels. Some people have a genetic mutation called familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) that predisposes them to high cholesterol. People with FH are generally advised against following a keto diet as it can lead to extreme increases in LDL cholesterol levels.
If you have high cholesterol and are considering the keto diet, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine if the diet is suitable for you based on your cholesterol levels and overall health. Adjustments to the standard keto diet, such as limiting saturated fats and including more unsaturated fats, may be necessary to prevent raising your cholesterol levels further.
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The keto diet may not be suitable for people with fat-induced lipemia
The keto diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate diet. On the keto diet, people can eat up to 80% of their calories from fat, and stick to 20 to 50 grams of net carbs per day. This means that people on the keto diet may end up eating a lot of fat per day, and to meet this quota, they may include unhealthy choices such as butter, coconut oil, and animal fat. These are all sources of saturated fat, which has been linked to poor heart health.
However, the effect of keto on heart health is not straightforward. Research shows that the keto diet produces modest reductions in triglycerides, modest changes in heart-protective high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good" cholesterol), and minimal changes in low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol) levels. Some studies have shown an increase in LDL on low- or very low-carb diets.
The impact of the keto diet on a person's cholesterol levels depends on the quality of their diet. Some studies have shown that a keto diet that is high in healthy unsaturated fat and limited in unhealthy saturated fat can lead to a reduction in total cholesterol, an increase in HDL, a decrease in triglycerides, and reductions in LDL.
People with high cholesterol should adopt a lifestyle that reduces these levels, as high cholesterol is associated with cardiovascular disease. While the keto diet can be an effective way to lose weight, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions. It is important to consult a doctor or dietitian before starting the keto diet, especially for those with high cholesterol or other health concerns.
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The keto diet may not be suitable for people with familial hypercholesterolemia
People with FH may experience extreme effects on their LDL cholesterol levels if they follow a keto diet due to their genetic factors. The National Lipid Association has expressed concern about the use of keto diets by people with high cholesterol, particularly those with FH. The concern is that the keto diet may worsen their condition and increase their risk of cardiovascular issues.
Some studies have shown that keto diets can increase LDL cholesterol levels, especially if the diet is high in saturated fat. People with FH who wish to try the keto diet should do so under close medical supervision. They may need to adjust their keto diet to avoid raising their cholesterol levels further, such as by avoiding artificial trans fats, processed meats, and fried foods.
In summary, while the keto diet may be effective for weight loss and improving overall health in some individuals, it may not be suitable for people with FH due to the potential impact on their cholesterol levels and associated health risks. It is essential for individuals with FH to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new diet, including the keto diet, to ensure it is safe and suitable for their specific health needs.
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The keto diet may not be suitable for people with type 1 diabetes
The ketogenic diet is a very-low-carb, high-fat diet that has been shown to offer several health benefits. However, the keto diet may not be suitable for people with type 1 diabetes due to several reasons and complications.
Firstly, the keto diet can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes, and without proper insulin adjustments, their blood sugar levels may become too low, leading to potentially serious complications such as confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness. This is a critical concern for people with type 1 diabetes, as they already have little or no insulin production.
Secondly, the keto diet can lead to unwanted weight loss, which may be undesirable or unsafe for some individuals with type 1 diabetes, especially those who are underweight. The keto diet promotes feelings of fullness, suppresses appetite, and reduces calorie intake due to the elimination of higher-carb foods. While weight loss may be a goal for some, it is not necessarily safe or desirable for everyone.
Thirdly, the keto diet may require insulin reduction. People with type 1 diabetes use short-acting insulin, and when on a keto diet, their blood sugar levels trend much lower, necessitating less insulin to manage them. Insulin dosing must be properly adjusted to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), a serious side effect. Close medical supervision and guidance are crucial to prevent serious complications.
Lastly, the keto diet may increase the risk of dyslipidemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hypoglycemia in people with type 1 diabetes. These potential complications warrant caution and close monitoring of patients who embark on the keto diet.
In conclusion, while the keto diet has been shown to offer health benefits, it may not be suitable for people with type 1 diabetes due to the risk of low blood sugar, unwanted weight loss, insulin reduction needs, and potential complications such as dyslipidemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hypoglycemia. Close medical supervision and individualised assessment are necessary to determine the suitability of the keto diet for people with type 1 diabetes.
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The keto diet may not be suitable for people with gallbladder issues
Gallbladder issues can include gallstones, inflammation, or complete removal of the gallbladder. If you have gallstones, eating fat may lead to gallstone pain. If you wish to follow a ketogenic diet, you may need to introduce it slowly or wait until the gallstones have been removed or dissolved. A review of studies from 2014 shows that high-fat diets appear to prevent gallstone formation, suggesting a good long-term benefit.
If you have had your gallbladder removed, your body can still digest food without its help. However, around 50% of patients experience digestive symptoms after surgery, most commonly diarrhea and loose stools. This is due to the more continuous release of bile into the intestines. Additionally, if you consume a high-fat meal during the first few weeks after surgery, some of the fat may go partially digested, resulting in fatty diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended to follow a moderate-fat diet for the first few weeks after surgery and slowly increase your fat intake. Consuming ginger or ginger tea with your meals may also help improve fat digestion.
If you have gallbladder issues, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adopting a keto diet to ensure it is safe and suitable for you.
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Frequently asked questions
The keto diet, short for ketogenic diet, is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate diet. It involves restricting your total carbohydrate intake to 20-50 grams per day, which forces your body to shift from using glucose as its main source of energy to using ketone bodies, a type of chemical formed from the breakdown of fat.
The keto diet may not have as detrimental an effect on cholesterol as previously thought. Most research suggests that keto diets can help lower total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels while raising HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. However, in some cases, the keto diet may raise total and LDL cholesterol levels in the short term.
When following the keto diet, it is important to opt for heart-healthy, low-carb foods. Try to consume more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are much better for the body. Good sources of these fats include avocados, olive oil, nuts, nut butters, seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon.
The keto diet may not be suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for people with kidney disease, liver diseases, familial hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels inherited from family), or fat-induced lipemia. People with these conditions may experience negative effects on their health if they follow the keto diet.
Yes, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary regimen, especially the keto diet. A doctor can help determine if the diet is suitable for your individual health needs and monitor you for any potential side effects or health conditions.
