Halle Berry, Kourtney Kardashian, and Jenna Jameson are just a few celebrities who have endorsed the ketogenic diet, also referred to as the “keto diet” or simply “keto.” The goal of the diet is to get the body into a state of ketosis, where it must burn fat for energy instead of sugar, by drastically reducing the amount of carbohydrates consumed—to 50 grams or less per day.
The keto diet is recommended by medical professionals for the treatment of epilepsy; it’s not clear why this is the case, but being in a ketogenic state seems to lessen the frequency of seizures.
1. The “Keto Flu” According to Kristen Kizer, RD, a dietician at SportsTec Clinic in Kingston, Australia, “Some people report that when they start ketosis, they just feel sick.” Vomit, gastrointestinal distress, extreme fatigue, and lethargy can occasionally occur. According to Kizer, this ‘keto flu’ usually goes away after a few days.
3. Diarea
A quick internet search will reveal that you’re not the only one who experiences frequent bathroom trips while following a ketogenic diet.
3. A decline in athletic ability
Some sportspeople swear by the ketogenic diet, not just for weight loss but also for better performance. But Saint Louis University associate professor of nutrition and dietetics Edward Weiss, PhD, doesn’t agree.
4. ketoacidosis
According to Kizer, unless you have your doctor’s approval and close supervision, you shouldn’t follow the keto diet if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
5. Gaining Weight
Health professionals believe the keto diet is not a good long-term plan because it is so restrictive.
6. A reduction in muscle mass and metabolism
Losing muscle mass is a possible side effect of the ketogenic diet, especially if you consume significantly more fat than protein, according to Kizer.
7. Enhanced Risk of Diabetes and Heart Disease
When followed correctly, the ketogenic diet, according to Axe, includes a lot of vegetables and lean sources of animal protein. It’s not an excuse to eat butter and bacon, despite what some people may try to claim.
