Exploring The Benefits Of The Ketogenic Diet For Cardiometabolic Conditions

Have you heard of the ketogenic diet but aren’t sure what it’s all about? The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate nutrition plan that has been used for centuries to treat various medical conditions.

The ketogenic diet has been popularized by many as a weight loss strategy. It is based on the notion that low-carb intake forces the body to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. However, the ketogenic diet does have other benefits beyond just weight loss. Those struggling with cardiometabolic conditions (high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, etc.) may find this diet plan viable.

Research has shown that the ketogenic diet can help reduce levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It also helps to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, with a focus on healthy fats and proteins, it can help to reduce hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods.

Read on to learn more about how the ketogenic diet can improve your cardiometabolic health and why functional medicine is key to success.

The Benefits Of A Keto Diet

The ketogenic (keto) diet, sometimes referred to as a very low carbohydrate diet, is a carbohydrate-restricted food plan in which carb intake is kept between 5 to 10% of typical dietary calories with a balance consisting of relatively high fat and moderate protein.

Originally designed as a potential treatment for epilepsy, the keto diet was used widely in pediatric patients for many years until the advent of anti-seizure pharmaceuticals. Those who follow the keto diet, especially for extended periods, often experience dramatic improvements in their cardiometabolic health.

The biggest benefits of a ketogenic diet include improved blood sugar levels and reduced insulin resistance, which helps improve metabolic function; decreased triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels; and reduced risk for hypertension and heart disease.

More recently, research has studied the use of this diet for weight loss, prevention, and treatment of neurological disorders such as PCOS or type 2 diabetes. A low carbohydrate intake leads the body to release less insulin while using fatty acids and their metabolites, known as ketone bodies, as an alternative energy source.

Reducing carbohydrates may also positively impact other hormones, decreasing free radical damage and enhancing antioxidant capacity. Studies suggest that low-carbohydrate diets lead to more significant weight loss than other food plans, including low-fat diets.

Ketogenic Diets And Intermittent Fasting For Diabetes: Benefits And Cautionary Concerns

One area that has seen a great deal of success with the use of ketogenic diets is diabetes treatment. This diet has been shown to improve fasting insulin levels, reduce hemoglobin A1C levels and increase overall insulin sensitivity among those with type 2 diabetes.

Intermittent fasting cycles can also be used in conjunction with a ketogenic diet to further optimize diabetes control. Intermittent fasting is a regular, short-term calorie restriction pattern that can help improve blood sugar levels and reduce body fat.

However, it’s important for those with diabetes to monitor their glucose closely when starting any type of fasting regimen, as it can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if not monitored and managed properly.

It’s also important to note that ketogenic diets require medical supervision as they can have adverse effects in certain individuals, such as the increased risk of kidney stones and other metabolic imbalances. That is why it’s important to work with a qualified functional medicine practitioner when starting any dietary program.

Functional medicine practitioners are specially trained to use nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and other tools to help restore balance to the body and optimize metabolic health. With careful monitoring and proper guidance, a ketogenic diet can be an effective solution for those with diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

Is A Keto Diet Right For You?

The ketogenic diet may be beneficial for some, but it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is essential to consult with your functional medicine provider to determine if this type of eating plan is right for you.

Your practitioner can work with you to evaluate the potential risks and benefits based on your medical history and current health status. Additionally, they can help you find the right balance of nutrients to maximize the potential benefits while minimizing any negative side effects.

Within the functional medicine framework, a ketogenic diet is one option available to individuals looking to optimize their health and well-being. By understanding your unique needs and working closely with a qualified practitioner, you can determine which approach is right for you.

This can help ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from any dietary intervention while avoiding any potential risks. Ultimately, finding the right approach to nutrition will depend on individual differences, so it’s important to have the right support and guidance.

See Your Options at Internal Healing & Wellness in The Woodlands

When used correctly, a ketogenic diet can be an effective tool for optimizing health and managing metabolic conditions such as diabetes. However, it is always essential to work with a qualified functional medicine provider when making any changes to your current dietary patterns. This will help ensure that you receive the best possible care and maximize your potential for success.

If you would like to learn more about the potential benefits of a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting for diabetes, contact Dr. Khan at Internal Healing & Wellness. Our functional medicine team will work with you to create a personalized plan for optimizing your health and well-being.

Schedule an appointment today to get started!