A Discussion on Diet

Written by Hafsah Ganatra and Edited by Emily Majorkiewicz

There is a new trend among the recent crazes for diets, cleanses, and workout routines: the ketogenic diet. When following the ketogenic diet, an important factor to consider is the use of healthy fats, which may seem contradictory to general diet guidelines. For example, foods containing dairy such as butter, cheese, and high-fat yoghurt should be included within daily meals along with vegetables and a source of moderate protein like fish or meat. Items that are high in carbohydrates such as rice, potatoes, bread and pasta must be avoided [1]. In this high fat, low carb diet the main goal is to generate a steady level of ketosis. Ketosis is characterized by the rise of ketone body level within organs and the bloodstream that occurs when the main energy source in the body is fat instead of carbs. Ketone bodies are generated when fat is metabolized instead of glucose. This typically occurs when carbohydrate intake is low, allowing the body to then resort to the use of fatty acid tissue as a source of fuel instead [2].

Originally used to treat epilepsy, the ketogenic diet can have many positive impacts. However, it is now most commonly used for weight loss. In a series of research studies, scientists discovered that the ketone diet is especially beneficial for obese patients as low carb diets are more successful in achieving the loss of body fat than low-fat diets. The ketogenic diet is also considered more beneficial for obese patients because ketones can offer protection against cognitive deficiencies that can be a result of weight gain or obesity [3]. Additionally, current ongoing research has indicated that the ketogenic diet may be a plausible treatment for cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.

While the ketogenic diet does have many valuable qualities, a few concerns persist about the true effects and feasibility of the diet.  Many of these concerns are rooted within the long-term durability of the ketone diet. While beneficial for initial weight loss, the ketogenic diet can also be limiting in its positive effects on total cholesterol if it is carried on for long periods of time. Also, the diet can lead to insulin resistance which can be detrimental to body metabolism [5]. Along with being an overall difficult diet to maintain, the ketone diet is not for everybody. Pregnant women and individuals with thyroid problems and insomnia should not be on the diet [6].

While many possible benefits can be addressed through the ketogenic diet, in terms of long term effects, this diet can be difficult to maintain and may shoulder serious side effects. When considering the ketogenic diet, it is necessary to consult a physician beforehand as with any dietary change.

References:

1. Andreas, Eenfeldt. “A Ketogenic Diet for Beginners – The Ultimate Keto Guide.” Diet Doctor, DietDoctor, Apr. 2018.
2. Dashti, H.M., Mathew, T.C., Hussein, T., Asfar, S.K. 2004. Long-term Effects of a Ketogenic Diet in Obese Patients. Experimental and Clinical Cardiology. 9: 200-205.
3. Paoli, A. 2014. Ketogenic Diet for Obesity: Friend or Foe. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 11: 2092-2107.
4. Baranano, K.W., Hartman, A.L. 2008. The Ketogenic Diet: Uses in Epilepsy and Other Neurologic Illnesses. Current Treatment Options in Neurology. 10: 410-419.
5. Jornayvaz, F.R., Kosinski, C. 2017. Effects of Ketogenic Diets on Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Evidence from Animal and Human Studies. Nutrients. 9: 517.
6. Brandman, Jodie. “The Truth Behind The Ketogenic Diet.” HuffPost UK, Huffington Post UK, 5 Nov. 2017.