A collaborative research effort involving health and nutrition experts from the University of Bath, University of Bristol, Oxford University Hospital Trusts, Maastricht University, and Teagasc Food Research Center has revealed potential health implications of the ketogenic diet. Published in Cell Reports Medicine, the study highlights that individuals on a ketogenic diet may experience elevated levels of LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B, along with reductions in specific gut bacteria.
The ketogenic diet, characterized by a significant reduction in carbohydrate intake and increased consumption of fats from sources such as meat, dairy, cheese, eggs, and avocados, has been popular for its purported weight loss benefits. However, concerns have arisen regarding potential adverse effects including nutritional deficiencies, digestive issues, kidney stones, and long-term impacts on bone health.
In this study, researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 53 non-obese adults who were divided into three groups: one on a ketogenic diet, another on a low-sugar diet, and a control group following a moderate diet. After one month, participants underwent medical evaluations to assess changes in their health parameters.
Results indicated that individuals on the ketogenic diet experienced an average weight loss of 1.6 kg of fat. However, they also showed a 16% increase in LDL cholesterol levels and a 26% increase in apolipoprotein B levels compared to the control group. LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B are associated with increased cardiovascular risk due to their roles in artery plaque formation.
Furthermore, participants on the ketogenic diet exhibited reduced levels of specific gut bacteria known for their involvement in immune system support and vitamin B production. This finding raises concerns about potential implications for overall health and immune function among those adhering to a ketogenic regimen.
The study underscores the importance of further research into the long-term effects of the ketogenic diet, particularly regarding cardiovascular health and gut microbiome composition. While effective for short-term weight loss, the diet’s impact on cholesterol levels and gut bacteria suggests a need for careful consideration and monitoring when adopting such dietary practices.
As researchers continue to investigate the broader implications of the ketogenic diet, including its benefits and risks, findings from studies like this provide valuable insights into optimizing dietary recommendations for health and wellness.