Keto diet risks you need to know

Darielle Britto | Apr 30, 2019, 22:00 IST
There is no doubt the keto diet has become a popular diet trend around the world. Many people have adopted this low-carb diet for various reasons, including weight loss.

However, like any diet, the keto one also has risks involved.One of the rules is to cut back on carbohydrates and only consume 50 grams of it a day. Sticking to this type of diet for a long time can be dangerous for your health.

Here are some of the dangers you need to know before you try this diet.

1. Low-carb diets could cause vitamin or mineral deficiencies: When you reduce your carb intake, you may decide to avoid nutritious fruits and vegetables that have a rich source of carbohydrates. That is not a good idea. "Fruits and vegetables are good for us; they’re high in antioxidants and full of vitamins and minerals,” Annette Frain, RD, program director with the Weight Management Center at Wake Forest Baptist Health, told a news portal. Adding, “If you eliminate those, you aren’t getting those nutrients over time.”

2. You may gain the weight back on: The keto diet is strict. You really have to commit to it in order to see the results. However, when you get into the more relaxed phase of the diet, where you can start to incorporate more carbohydrates, it can be a tricky time to manage your weight. “Keto can be a great jump-start to weight loss, but the reality is that most people can't adhere to it for very long,” Frain told a news portal. Adding, “Often, people are going into ketosis and losing weight, then coming out and gaining it back and falling into this yo-yo pattern, and that’s not what we want.” Frain also warns weight fluctuations have been found to increase the risk of premature death.

3:Chronic disease risk is high due to too much fat intake:Following the keto diet for too long can have an impact on your heart health and arteries. Researchers say some people who follow a low-carb diet can increase their risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. This can raise your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Consult with a doctor before following any strict diet.
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