A novel approach for rapid weight loss called Ketogenic Diet has gained its popularity among people trying to lose weight. It refers to a diet consisting of high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrates. It works by reducing the intake of carbohydrate. By this way, our body will start breaking down stored fat, from which we can gain energy in return [1]. Such diet leads to insufficient fat oxidation, and the end products are mainly ketones.
Is long-term ketogenic diet safe? Many celebrities, international and domestic, are fans of it. They share their achievements on social medias like Wechat and Instagram, showing its positive effects. This diet is initially designed for medical purpose, e.g. treatment of epilepsy, diabetes and Parkinson’s disorders [3-6]. It has been proven effective for short-term rapid weight loss.
What’s the adverse effect of Ketogenic Diet? Although Ketogenic Diet is helpful in weight loss, there are still some adverse effects and risks. People may feel tired and suffer constipation, bad breath, and Dehydration during this diet. The intake of lots of high-fats may also lead to function problems of kidney and liver. What’s more, due to the strict restriction on food choosing, it is difficult for people to adhere to this diet for long. And still there is a lack of evidence of the long-term effectiveness of Ketogenic Diet [1,2,5,7].
This diet has both Pros & Cons, and works not the same for all. Meanwhile, its adverse effects and risks indicate a need for nutritional guidance or medical advise with enough understanding of this diet and individual’s health [2].