Is the Keto Diet Safe? A perspective from an RN and Certified Keto Coach
Is Keto Safe?
Before jumping on the keto train, most people want the assurance that keto is truly safe. As a Registered Nurse, I often hear some common concerns from those considering keto. And as a Certified Keto Coach, I have set out to answer them!
People worry “Will I be well nourished on keto?”
To many peoples’ surprise, low carb diets are often safer than calorie restricted ones! With keto your body gets plenty of nutrients — you’re not taking away what the body needs, only what it doesn’t! It turns out there are essential amino acids and essential fatty acids, but no such thing as essential carbohydrates. The body doesn’t need them, since it can synthesize glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. This process is called gluconeogenesis.
People wonder “Is eating high fat ok?”
Since the food pyramid was introduced 30 years ago, dietary guidelines have steered us away from fat, and the US obesity rate has more than doubled; now exceeding 42%. For decades Americans have been under the misguided impression that eating fat makes us fat, which research has now debunked. Even a growing number of cardiologists, including Dr. Bret Scher and Dr. Nadir Ali, endorse low carb, explaining keto often improves cholesterol, especially HDL and Triglycerides!
People say, “What about ketoacidosis?”
It’s easy to confuse ketosis with ketoacidosis as they sound similar, but the two are very different. Ketoacidosis is a dangerous metabolic state in Type I Diabetes where ketone levels and blood sugar levels are exceedingly high, producing acid in the blood. These simultaneous high levels happen when the body doesn’t produce any insulin at all, a condition only present in Type I Diabetes. This puts a heavy burden on internal organs, especially the kidneys. In contrast, while the ketogenic diet causes an elevation in ketones, it’s a very minor increase; But enough to create several therapeutic changes in the body!
As a Keto Coach, I enjoy helping people find the level of ketosis that is safe, and feels right to them. Depending on the number of carbs they consume, their exercise output, and whether or not they incorporate fasting, ketone levels can vary.
If you’re interested in learning more about the keto diet and whether or not it’s right for you, reach out today and let’s get connected!