A recent study published in Science Advances has revealed potential health risks associated with long-term adherence to the ketogenic diet, despite its popularity for weight loss and blood sugar control. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the potential metabolic and organ-related issues that may arise from prolonged use of this dietary approach.
The ketogenic diet, which involves significantly reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption, forces the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In this state, the body begins to use fat as its primary energy source. While the diet can lead to rapid weight loss and improved blood sugar management, experts have begun to question its long-term effects.
Researchers found that, beyond initial weight loss, the diet may cause several metabolic and organ-related problems. A specific phenomenon known as “keto flu” was similarly highlighted in the research.
“Keto flu” refers to a collection of symptoms experienced by many individuals when first starting the ketogenic diet. These symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, irritability, and dizziness. For many, beginning a ketogenic diet represents a shock to the body, and these symptoms typically appear within the first few days or weeks.
