The Risks of Keto-Diets on Heart Health

The ketogenic (keto) diet has gained popularity for its rapid weight loss benefits. However, emerging research indicates that this high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet may have detrimental effects on heart health, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and arterial blockages.

Damage to Gut Bacteria

The keto diet may aid in fat loss but poses several health risks. It raises "unfavourable" blood fats, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke, while also reducing beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria, which support digestion and immune health. It can also lower glucose tolerance, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes when transitioning back to higher-carb eating. In contrast, low-sugar diets have minimal impact on gut health and are considered healthier alternatives.

Elevated LDL Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk

One of the primary concerns with the keto diet is its tendency to raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol.

A 2024 review by Harvard Health highlighted that while the keto diet may lower triglycerides, it simultaneously elevates LDL cholesterol, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Further supporting this, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that individuals adhering to a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet exhibited higher LDL-C and apolipoprotein B levels, correlating with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Increased Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

Adopting a "keto-like" diet may also double the risk of cardiovascular events. Research presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session revealed that participants following such diets had a twofold increased risk of events like chest pain (angina), blocked arteries requiring stenting, heart attacks, and strokes.

Urban Health Today echoed these findings, reporting that keto-like diets are associated with elevated levels of bad cholesterol and a doubled risk of heart attack and stroke.

Potential for Arterial Blockages

The study by The American College of Cardiology found that individuals pursuing a keto diet had significantly higher levels of LDL cholesterol, which is a major contributor to atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries). As a result, participants on a keto-like diet were more likely to experience cardiovascular events such as chest pain, blocked arteries requiring stenting, heart attacks, and strokes. This raises concerns about the long-term heart health effects of such diets, especially for those already at risk of heart disease.

Conclusion

While the keto diet may be a hype diet that offers short-term weight loss benefits, its long-term implications for heart health are troubling.

Elevated LDL cholesterol, increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, and potential arterial blockages underscore the need for caution.

Those considering or currently following a keto diet should consult healthcare professionals to assess their cardiovascular risk and explore balanced dietary alternatives.

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