Keto Diet Linked to Increased ‚Bad‘ Cholesterol Levels and Negative Impact on Gut Health

A recent study comparing the keto diet with a diet low in added sugars revealed some surprising findings that shed light on the potential impacts of these popular eating patterns on weight loss and overall health. The study, published in Cell Reports Medicine, examined how these diets influenced weight loss and metabolism among 53 participants over a 12-week period. While both diets resulted in reduced fat mass compared to a control diet, the keto diet was associated with some negative metabolic changes that warrant further consideration.

One key finding of the study was that participants following the keto diet experienced elevated levels of „bad“ cholesterol compared to those on the low-sugar diet and the control diet. Specifically, individuals on the keto diet had higher levels of small and medium-sized LDL particles, which are known to be more detrimental to cardiovascular health. In contrast, the low-sugar diet led to a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels, highlighting the potential benefits of reducing added sugars in the diet.

Moreover, participants on the keto diet also exhibited increased levels of a molecule called apolipoprotein B (apoB), a compound found in LDL cholesterol that is associated with atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular complications. These findings suggest that the keto diet may have some negative effects on cardiovascular health compared to a diet low in added sugars.

In addition to the metabolic changes observed, the study also explored the impact of the keto diet on the gut microbiome – the diverse community of bacteria that reside in the intestines and play a crucial role in digestion and overall health. The researchers found that participants following the keto diet had reduced levels of Bifidobacteria, a beneficial gut bacteria known for its role in supporting immune function and gut health. Decreased levels of Bifidobacteria have been linked to various metabolic and gut-related issues, underscoring the potential consequences of the keto diet on the microbiome.

Furthermore, the keto diet’s restriction of carbohydrates, including fiber-rich foods that feed gut bacteria, may explain the observed changes in the gut microbiome. Fiber intake is essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, and a lack of fiber on the keto diet could contribute to alterations in gut bacteria composition and diversity.

While the study provided valuable insights into the effects of the keto diet on weight loss and metabolism, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term implications of following this dietary pattern. Study author Javier Gonzalez emphasized the importance of personalized approaches to diet based on individual health status and the potential for targeted supplementation strategies to mitigate any adverse effects of the keto diet.

In summary, the study suggests that while both the keto diet and a diet low in added sugars can lead to weight loss, the keto diet may come with certain trade-offs in terms of cardiovascular health and gut microbiome balance. It is essential to consider these findings when evaluating the potential risks and benefits of different dietary patterns for overall health and weight management.