The ketogenic diet, which focuses on high-fat and very low-carbohydrate foods, became popular in the early 2000s with the mantra “fat is not the enemy.” However, a study published in the March 2024 issue of Current Problems in Cardiology suggests that the diet may not be as beneficial as previously thought. The study, conducted by Joanna Popiolek-Kalisz, MD and PhD, found that while many individuals experienced rapid weight loss on the diet, it was likely due to water weight loss and did not result in any long-term positive health changes within the body.
Popiolek-Kalisz noted that the ketogenic diet does not meet the criteria of a healthy diet. In fact, she stated that a low-carb pattern is more beneficial for overall heart health than a very low-carbohydrate diet, such as the ketogenic diet. Due to the emphasis on fats in the keto diet, individuals following it typically have higher levels of LDL cholesterol, which is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, clogged arteries, and death. Additionally, the diet can lead to major vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as well as an excess of fat-soluble vitamin K, which can also be harmful for the heart.
In addition to the ketogenic diet, other popular low-carb dietary plans include the Atkins diet, the paleo diet, and the South Beach diet. Studies have also shown that the keto diet can increase the risk of kidney stones. Despite the popularity of low-carb diets, the International Food Information Council’s annual study found that the percentage of Americans following the high-fat keto diet dropped by 4% compared to 2023. This downward trend is expected to continue in the future as more research raises concerns about the potential negative effects of the diet on heart health and overall well-being.
Overall, the findings of the study suggest that the ketogenic diet may not be as beneficial as previously believed. While it can lead to rapid weight loss, most of this is likely due to water weight loss and does not result in long-term health benefits. The emphasis on fats in the diet can lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol, which is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. In addition, the diet can result in deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as an excess of fat-soluble vitamin K, which can be harmful for heart health.
Despite the popularity of low-carb diets, including the keto diet, the downward trend in the adoption of keto diets is expected to continue. This is likely due to increasing awareness of the potential negative effects of the diet on heart health and overall well-being. As more research is conducted on the topic, individuals may be more inclined to choose dietary plans that are more balanced and prioritize long-term health benefits.
