The ketogenic diet, commonly known as the keto diet, has become a popular choice for people looking for weight loss. This diet involves eating a lot of fats, very few carbohydrates, and a moderate amount of protein. While the keto diet can help you shed pounds, it also has some side effects, particularly on cholesterol levels.
How the Keto Diet Works
When you follow the keto diet, your body switches its fuel source from glucose (sugar) to ketones, which are made from fat. This process, known as ketosis, helps your body burn fat more effectively, leading to weight loss.
Benefits of the Keto Diet
Many people have found success with the keto diet in terms of losing weight. Because the body burns fat for fuel, it can lead to significant fat loss. For those struggling with obesity or looking to drop a few pounds, the keto diet can be an effective solution.
The Drawbacks: Cholesterol Levels
However, the keto diet has a downside: it can raise your cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that your body needs to function, but too much of it can be harmful. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to blocked arteries and heart disease.
Research Findings
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Bath in the UK found that while the keto diet helped participants lose weight, it also increased their LDL cholesterol levels. In the study, participants followed different diets: a keto diet, a low-sugar diet, and a balanced diet. Those on the keto diet lost more fat but had a 16% increase in LDL cholesterol. They also had higher levels of a protein called apolipoprotein B, which can block arteries.
Impact on Gut Health
The study also revealed that the keto diet might affect gut health. Participants on the keto diet had lower levels of Bifidobacterium, a beneficial gut bacteria. This could be due to the low fiber intake in the keto diet, as fiber helps maintain healthy gut bacteria.
Also Read: Antibiotics Can Only Be Sold With Prescription From a Licensed Doctor: DRAP
Conclusion
The keto diet can be a powerful tool for weight loss, but it comes with potential risks. While you might lose weight, you could also see an increase in your cholesterol levels, which can affect heart health. If you’re considering the keto diet, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s a safe and effective option for you.
[…] Also Read: Keto Diet: Effective for Weight Loss but Raises Cholesterol Levels […]