Question

The ketogenic diet (or keto diet, for short) is a low-carb, high-fat diet that is based on ketogenesis. Explain physiology of ketogenic diet. Explain why a diabetic may benefit from ketogenic diet. Explain the possible adverse side effects of ketogenic diet

Answer 1

• Ketogenic diet primarily consists of high-fats, moderate-proteins and very-low-carbohydrates.
• Physiology of ketogenic diet- Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy production in body tissues. When the body is deprived of carbohydrates, two metabolic processes come into action when there is low carbohydrate availability in body tissues: gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis.

  Ketogenesis begins in order to provide an alternate source of energy(even when the amount of glucose depletes) in the form of ketone bodies. During ketogenesis due to low blood glucose feedback, stimulus for insulin secretion is also low, which sharply reduces the stimulus for fat and glucose storage. Other hormonal changes may contribute to the increased breakdown of fats that result in fatty acids. These are the basic ketone bodies that accumulate in the body as a ketogenic diet is sustained.

• Benefits of ketone diet-

1. Supports weight loss.
2. Improves acne.
3. May reduce risk of certain cancers.
4. May improve heart health.
5. May protect brain function.
6. Potentially reduces seizures.
7. Improves PCOS symptoms.

• Harmful effects of ketone diet- The most common side effects of ketogenic diet include nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, difficulty in exercise tolerance, and constipation(sometimes referred to as keto flu). These symptoms resolve in a few days to few weeks. Ensuring adequate fluid and electrolyte intake can help counter some of these symptoms. Long-term adverse effects include hepatic steatosis, hypoproteinemia, kidney stones, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies.