Ketogenic diet
What are the pros and cons of the keto diet?
For most people, the Keto diet will result in weight loss, but this might not be the healthiest way to do it. When your body burns fat because it is starved of carbs, it makes ketones. Ketones are a type of acid made by your liver and then sent into your bloodstream. Too many ketones can led to dehydration and alter the chemical balance of your blood.
Cutting out entire food groups can also be hard to stick with long-term, and most people regain some or all of the weight lost when they quit the Keto diet and resume a less extreme diet.
In addition, diets high in fat are associated with heart disease and obesity. Many keto diet-safe foods, like red meat, can increase your cancer risk.
- Pros and Cons of Keto Diet for Cancer Patients
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Potential anti-tumor effects | Nutritional deficiencies may arise. |
| Weight loss and improved BMI | Difficulty adhering to the diet. |
| Enhanced energy and cognition | Increased risk of ketoacidosis |
| Reduced inflammation | Limited food choices |
| Lowered insulin levels | Potential adverse effects on liver |
| Improved insulin sensitivity | Impact on muscle mass and strength |
| Potential metabolic benefits | Interaction with certain medications |
| Enhanced quality of life | Not suitable for all cancer types |
