Why the Keto Diet is Harmful to your health
The ketogenic diet, often referred to as the keto diet, is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that has gained popularity for its potential benefits for weight loss and improved metabolic health. Menopause, on the other hand, is a natural biological process that occurs in women as they age, typically around their late 40s or early 50s, and is characterized by a significant decrease in estrogen levels. Both the keto diet and menopause can have important implications for a woman's health and their compatibility should be carefully considered.
To being, women need to know why the keto diet came into existence in the first place. By understanding why it was first created and for whom, menopausal women will think twice before deciding if this diet plan is best for her health. The answer will shock you.
The ketogenic diet was first introduced in the 1920s by Dr. Russell Wilder at the Mayo Clinic. It was designed as a treatment for epilepsy, particularly for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Clinical studies were tightly controlled and involved hospitalization of patients for the first three to five days to ensure the diet was adhered to properly.
The ketogenic diet was targeted for obese men, primarily diabetic trying to lose weight for either insulin control or to prep for surgery. The diet was also explored for traumatic brain injury and recovery from concussion or stroke.
While these studeis did achieve improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis, as well as nduce rapid weight loss, these studies were conducted mainly on men.
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Of the few controlled studies that were conducted on women, partcipants were sedentary, obese,and post-menopausal. These women needed to lose weight to improve insulin sensitivity and to lower-blood glucose level.
Studies show that when menopausal women who did not have a clinical requirement to drop weight or lower blood glucos and were exercising regularly, be it moderate or intense, experienced the following
thyroid suppression;
an increase in cardiovascular risk due to the high cholesterol/fat intake of the keto diet;
a decrease in bone mineral density; and
a significant reduction in the microbiome diversity.
Microbiome diversity is already problematic with menopausal transition due to stress from hormone fluctuation Inhibition of the good bacteria growth, which is needed for brain health immunity and to help preserve lean mass. Menopause stress increases baseline cortisol and can lead to weight gain and more belly fat.
If you are on the keto diet or are thinking about starting it and are in the menopausal transition, here are some factors to consider when thinking:
Some women may experience weight gain during menopause due to hormonal changes. The keto diet may help with weight loss, but individual results can vary.
While the keto diet does not directly affect estrogen levels, it may influence other hormones like insulin. Some women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, which may already be irregular during perimenopause, when following a keto diet. These hormonal shifts should be monitored and discussed with a healthcare provider.
Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, and women are at increased risk of osteoporosis after menopause due to estrogen decline. The keto diet may increase calcium excretion in urine, potentially impacting bone health. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and regular weight-bearing exercise are essential during menopause, and these two areas will be explored in future articles.
Some studies suggest that the keto diet may have potential cardiovascular benefits, such as improved lipid profiles and reduced inflammation. These benefits could be especially relevant for women who may be at higher risk of heart disease after menopause.
In conclusion, while the keto diet may offer benefits for some, it may not be the best choice for menopausal women. Prioritizing a balanced diet that supports hormonal balance, bone health, weight gain, and overall well-being, in consultation with a healthcare professional, is often a more suitable approach during this life stage. Remember that menopause is a natural process, and self-care and a healthy lifestyle are key to navigating it successfully.
*This article is an accumulation of information gathered from many sources and is for information purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice nor does it replace professional medical diagnosis. Before starting any diet, including the keto diet, during menopause or at any stage of life, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider, nutritionist, or registered dietitian. They can help you assess your individual health goals, dietary needs, and any potential risks or benefits associated with specific dietary choices. A healthcare professional can also help you create a well-balanced and sustainable eating plan that supports your overall health and well-being during menopause.
References
Holscher HD. Dietary fiber and prebiotics and the gastrointestinal microbiota. Gut Microbes. (2017) 8:172–84. 10.1080/19490976.2017.1290756.
Jeffery IB, O'Toole PW. Diet-microbiota interactions and their implications for healthy living. Nutrients. (2013) 5:234–52.
Bilsborough SA, Crowe TC. Low-carbohydrate diets: what are the potential short- and long-term health implications? Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. (2003) 12:396–404.
