New Study Warns: Keto Diet May Cause Hidden Liver and Blood Sugar Problems
A new study reveals potential long-term risks of the ketogenic diet. The popular keto diet helped mice stay lean. However, it also caused serious hidden health problems.Researchers from the University of Utah Health conducted the study. They published their findings in Science Advances. The study followed mice on different diets for over nine months.
Weight Gain vs. Metabolic Health
The keto diet did prevent weight gain effectively. Mice on keto gained less weight than those on a high-fat Western diet. This benefit applied to both male and female mice.However, the weight change was misleading. Any weight gained was mostly fat, not lean muscle. More importantly, major metabolic issues emerged.
The Fatty Liver Problem
A key finding was the development of fatty liver disease. The liver stores excess fat from the high-fat diet. This happened despite the mice not gaining much weight.Senior author Amandine Chaix explained the result. “The lipids have to go somewhere,” Chaix said. “They usually end up in the blood and the liver.”Male mice were especially affected. They developed severe fatty liver and impaired liver function. Female mice showed resistance to this effect, surprising researchers.
A Blood Sugar Control Warning
The diet also disrupted blood sugar regulation. Initially, mice had low blood sugar and insulin. This seems like a benefit.However, the response to carbohydrates became dangerous. “Their blood glucose goes really high for really long,” Chaix noted. This is called impaired glucose tolerance.The research suggests pancreatic cells were stressed. High fat levels may have damaged their ability to release insulin properly.Mouse studies don’t always translate directly to humans. However, they provide crucial warnings. The keto diet’s long-term metabolic impact needs more research.Lead researcher Molly Gallop advises caution. “I would urge anyone to talk to a healthcare provider,” Gallop said.The potential damage may not be permanent. Mice saw improved blood sugar control after stopping the diet. This suggests some effects could be reversible.Consider both benefits and risks. Always consult a professional before starting any long-term restrictive diet.
