Low-carb and ketogenic diets have become very popular for weight loss. But the high amounts of fat with proteins and fewer carbohydrates can not only increase the risk of high cholesterol but put pressure on the kidneys.
What is a Keto diet and how does it work?
Keto diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. Carbohydrates are not more than 50 gm. When you’re on the Keto diet, you’re eating too few carbs to support your body’s energy needs. As a result, your body turns to burning your stores of body fat to fuel your energy. When your body burns body fat for fuel, it produces ketones, substances made in your liver. Your body enters a metabolic state called “ketosis.” If you follow the Keto diet strictly, your body will reach ketosis in about four days. This helps to reduce weight. The ratio is usually 60 per cent fat, 35 per cent protein, and five per cent carbs.
For which disease conditions do the benefits of the diet outweigh the risks?
It may help people with heart disease, epilepsy, certain brain diseases, acne, weight loss, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, polycystic ovaries besides athletes doing heavy exercise. Diet is planned as per the individual. So, it’s very essential to take the guidance of a nutritionist as regular monitoring is required to maintain a good balance of all parameters.
What are the effects of a Keto diet on the kidney?
A Keto diet is high in fat, protein and low in carbohydrates. People with normal kidney function can only handle excess protein. For kidney-related problems, we need to monitor protein intake as per the raised parameters. Such patients cannot have a high protein, high fat diet as it may overload the kidney and worsen the problem. Those suffering from kidney ailments should stay away from this diet.
When it comes to the Keto diet’s effect on the kidneys, it might elevate creatinine levels. Patients experiencing acute symptoms should follow a nutritionist-planned diet based on biomedical parameters. In addition to creatinine, electrolytes and iron must be monitored.
Does Keto diet lead to stone formation? What are its other effects?
Ketogenic diets are risky for gallstones and…