5 Keto Diet Side Effects

The keto diet has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to lose weight quickly. However, the diet could show several potential side effects, including constipation, headaches, bad breath, and fatigue.

In some cases, the diet may also lead to kidney stones and other health problems. Therefore, it is important to speak with a doctor before starting the keto diet and to be aware of the potential risks and side effects.

With that said, the keto diet can be an effective weight-loss tool for those who can stick with it. For best results, eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly while on the keto diet.

1. The “Keto Flu”

   The “keto flu” is a term used to describe the symptoms that some people experience when they first start following a ketogenic diet. These symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, brain fog, and nausea. While the exact cause of the keto flu is unknown, it is thought to be related to the body’s adjustment to using ketones for energy. Fortunately, the keto flu is usually short-lived, and most people feel better after a week or two of following a ketogenic diet. However, if you are experiencing severe symptoms, it is important to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian to ensure that you follow the diet correctly.

2. Diarrhea

   When people think of the keto diet, they often think of a high-fat, low-carbohydrate way of eating that can help people lose weight. However, the keto diet can also cause unpleasant side effects, including diarrhea. Various factors cause diarrhea, but on the keto diet, it is most often caused by a lack of fiber. Because carbohydrates are limited on the keto diet, many people do not get enough fiber. This can lead to constipation and diarrhea as the body tries to expel the backed-up stool. The keto diet can also cause dehydration, which can exacerbate diarrhea. To avoid these side effects, it is important to ensure that you get enough fiber in your diet and drink plenty of fluids. If you experience prolonged or severe diarrhea, you should consult a doctor.

3. Less Muscle Mass, Decreased Metabolism

   The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been gaining popularity in recent years. However, new research suggests that the keto diet may have some potential drawbacks. One study found that people who followed a keto diet for six months had less muscle mass and a lower metabolism than those who did not follow the diet. The study also found that the keto dieters had higher levels of inflammation in their bodies. While the keto diet may help some people lose weight in the short term, the long-term effects of the diet are still unknown.

   When people go off the ketogenic diet and regain weight, it’s often in the form of fat rather than lean muscle. This is due to the fact that the ketogenic diet causes the body to burn fat for energy, rather than carbohydrates. As a result, when people return to eating carbohydrates, their bodies are more efficient at storing them as fat. People who are thinking about going on the ketogenic diet should be aware of this potential side effect. We advised people to speak with their doctor before starting the diet, and to monitor their body composition closely if they do decide to go on it.

4. Reduced Athletic Performance

   While the keto diet has many benefits, including weight loss and increased energy, it can also lead to reduced athletic performance. The reason for this is that the body requires carbohydrates to burned for energy, and on a keto diet, carbs are severely restricted. This can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in body fat, both of which can reduce athletic performance. In addition, the lack of carbs can lead to fatigue and low energy levels, making it difficult to train at a high level. A more balanced diet is usually best for athletes looking to improve their performance. However, if weight loss is the primary goal, then the keto diet may be worth trying despite its potential drawbacks.

5. Ketoacidosis

   Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that can occur when following the keto diet. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that helps people lose weight by forcing the body to burn fat for energy. However, if the body doesn’t have enough carbohydrates to burn for energy, it will begin to break down fats for fuel. This process produces ketones, which are acidic and can build up in the blood to dangerous levels.

   Symptoms of ketoacidosis include a dry mouth, frequent urination, nausea, bad breath, and breathing difficulties. If you experience any of these while following the keto diet, check in with a healthcare provider right away. Left untreated, ketoacidosis can lead to coma or even death. With prompt treatment, however, most people make a full recovery.

Conclusion

While the keto diet has many potential benefits, it also comes with a few potential side effects. The most common side effect is the “keto flu,” which can occur when your body first adjusts to a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. Symptoms of the keto flu include fatigue, headache, and nausea. If you experience the keto flu, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.

Most people find that the keto flu subsides after a few days, and they are able to continue on with the diet without any problems. However, some people may also experience other less common side effects, such as constipation, bad breath, and increased risks for heart disease and kidney stones. Overall, the keto diet is safe for most people, but it is always important to speak with a doctor before starting any new diet.