Fever And Keto: Normal Or Not?

Starting a ketogenic diet can cause a range of side effects, commonly referred to as the keto flu. Symptoms of the keto flu include fatigue, nausea, headaches, and constipation, and they can last from a few days to a few weeks. While the keto flu is typically not serious, it can be unpleasant, and some people may find it discouraging to continue with the diet. However, it is important to note that fever is not a symptom of the keto flu, and if you experience fever along with other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Keto flu is not influenza

The "keto flu" is a collection of symptoms that some people experience when they start a ketogenic diet. It is important to note that keto flu is not influenza. While the symptoms can feel similar to the flu, they are typically mild and short-term, lasting only a few days to a few weeks.

The ketogenic diet is a popular eating plan that involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption. This dietary shift can cause various side effects, known as keto flu, as the body adapts to using fat instead of carbohydrates for energy.

Keto flu symptoms can include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Muscle soreness
• Cravings
• Difficulty sleeping

It is worth noting that fever is not a typical symptom of keto flu. In fact, some sources explicitly state that keto flu will not cause a fever. However, if you experience a fever along with other flu-like symptoms when starting a ketogenic diet, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out other causes.

The good news is that keto flu is usually temporary and can be managed with a few simple strategies:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Consume more electrolytes, such as through salted food or sports drinks
• Get enough rest and avoid strenuous exercise during the initial transition period
• Gradually reduce carbohydrate intake instead of cutting it out all at once

Keto flu symptoms

The keto flu is a collection of symptoms experienced by some people when they first start the keto diet. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary from person to person. Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with the keto flu:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Stomach or intestinal pain
• Muscle soreness and cramps
• Cravings
• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dizziness
• Brain fog
• Aches and pains
• Rapid weight loss
• Dehydration
• Low blood sugar

These symptoms are caused by the body's transition from using carbohydrates for energy to using fat. This switch to burning fat for energy is called ketosis, and it occurs when the body does not have enough carbohydrates to use for energy. The keto flu is usually temporary and can last from a few days to a few weeks, and in some cases, up to a month.

To manage the keto flu, it is important to stay hydrated, replace electrolytes, get enough rest, and ensure adequate consumption of healthy fats and calories. Additionally, a slower transition to the keto diet by gradually reducing carbohydrate intake can help alleviate the symptoms.

Causes of keto flu

The keto flu is a collection of symptoms experienced by some people when they first start a ketogenic diet. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually appear within the first few days of starting the diet, lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks. While the exact cause of keto flu is unknown, it is believed to be related to the body's adjustment to a new fuel source and the sudden withdrawal from carbohydrates. Here are some possible causes of keto flu:

• Carbohydrate Withdrawal: The ketogenic diet involves a drastic reduction in carbohydrate intake, typically limited to 20-50 grams per day. This sudden decrease in carbs can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms, similar to those experienced when quitting an addictive substance. The body is used to relying on carbohydrates as its primary energy source, and the switch to burning fat for energy can be challenging for some.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: The keto diet restricts many foods that are high in potassium, such as fruits, beans, and starchy vegetables. This can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, as the body also loses electrolytes through increased urination due to the diuretic effect of ketones. Electrolyte imbalances can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, and headaches.
• Dehydration: The keto diet can cause a rapid loss of water stores in the body, leading to dehydration. This is because glycogen, which binds to water, is depleted when carbohydrate intake is reduced. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms like fatigue and muscle cramps.
• Gut Microbiome Changes: Some experts speculate that keto flu may be related to changes in the gut microbiome. The shift from a carbohydrate-rich diet to one high in fats and low in carbs can impact the balance of bacteria in the gut, potentially leading to digestive issues and other symptoms.
• Genetic Factors: It is believed that genetics may play a role in why some people experience keto flu while others do not. However, the exact genetic mechanisms involved are not yet fully understood.
• Individual Differences: People adapt to ketogenic diets differently. Those who typically consume a lot of carbohydrates, especially refined carbs, may have a harder time adjusting to the keto diet. Individual differences in metabolism and overall health can also influence the severity of keto flu symptoms.

It is important to note that while keto flu is common, it is not a medically recognized condition, and the term "flu" is used to describe the similar symptoms experienced by some individuals. If you are experiencing severe or prolonged symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out other potential causes.

Keto flu remedies

Fever is not a typical symptom of the keto flu. However, if you are feeling particularly unwell and experiencing a fever, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out other causes.

Now, here are some remedies to help you get through the keto flu:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which is a common issue when starting a keto diet. This is especially important if you previously consumed a lot of sugary drinks, as these may have been a significant source of hydration.
• Replace electrolytes: When your body dumps water, it often releases electrolytes as well. Adding more salt to your food or drinking sports drinks that are high in electrolytes can help your body adjust to ketosis more smoothly.
• Eat more fat: Ensure you are getting enough healthy fats in your diet. This will help reduce cravings and keep you feeling satisfied.
• Get enough rest: Avoid heavy exercise during the first week of the keto diet while your body adjusts. Instead, focus on getting enough sleep and light exercise, such as yoga or stretching.
• Consider a slower transition: Many keto flu symptoms are the result of a sudden dietary shift. If you're finding it challenging to stick to a keto diet, try easing into it by gradually reducing your carb intake over a few days or weeks.

When to see a doctor

Fever is not a typical symptom of the "keto flu", a collection of symptoms experienced by some people when they start a ketogenic diet. However, if you are experiencing a fever, it is best to contact your doctor to rule out other causes.

You should also consult a doctor if you are experiencing other symptoms alongside the keto flu, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The keto flu is usually temporary and the symptoms are generally mild and easy to manage at home. However, doctors can recommend effective treatments and help prevent long-term complications from developing.

Before starting a keto diet, it is a good idea to consult a doctor to ensure that it is safe for you. This diet is not suitable for everyone and can cause serious complications. For example, it may not be appropriate for pregnant or breastfeeding people, children, and teens, unless under medical supervision. Additionally, people with certain health conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or pancreatic conditions should avoid this diet.

If you have diabetes and are interested in following a ketogenic diet, it is crucial to consult a doctor first. They may need to modify your insulin and oral drug dosages. The keto diet can cause episodes of low blood sugar in people with diabetes, known as hypoglycemia.

Furthermore, people with fat metabolism disorders are at risk of coma or death if they fast or follow a keto diet. Some medications, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, can also interact with the diet. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical advice before starting this diet to ensure your safety and well-being.

Frequently asked questions