Is Keto Diet Unhealthy. I Like It But My Intuition

Posted on Wed, 12 Feb 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : is keto diet unhealthy. i like it but my intuition tells me it might be. the fact is, I gain weight when I eat a lot of carbs and I maintain or lose when I limit carbs and stay high protein, high fat and high quality complex carbs. I recently had a physical including an echo cardiagram and my heart is in good shape with none to minimal regurgitation and no vegetation. I want to lose 20 pounds and am thinking about going keto/atkins.

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (4 hours later)

I also seem to get palpitations on keto. why is that?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Keto diet is recommended only in specific cases, explained below in details

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I read carefully your query and understand your concern.

There are many controversial opinions regarding the ketogenic diet.
In my personal opinion keto diet is recommended in 2 major cases:
1- to lose weight when you are overweight or obese
2-to lower the glycemic level in case of diabetes
In these situations it should be accompanied by supplements to take the needed vitamins and minerals.
If you are not overweight or you don't have diabetes I would not recommend this diet.
Palpitations are often related to keto diet.
Being dehydrated is a common cause, as well as low salt intake. Drinking a lot of coffee can also be a cause..

Otherwise, I would recommend a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables.

Hope my answer was helpful.
If you have further queries feel free to contact me again.

Kind regards!

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi
General &Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D