When To Avoid The Ketogenic Diet

The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low carbohydrate diet that has been credited with helping people lose weight. On the ketogenic diet, a person’s carbohydrate intake is dropped to just two to four percent of their total caloric intake. The remainder of calories should come from natural fats such as meats, fish, butter, and cold pressed oils. Research shows a high success rate of weight loss when following the ketogenic diet. Despite its tempting weight loss promises, there are certain situations in which the ketogenic diet may do more harm than good. Keep reading to learn about these risks now.

If You Have Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation of the gut. Research shows that a bug known as MAP that is found in animal products such as milk and meat may be the cause of Crohn’s disease. Along with being high in meat, the ketogenic diet also limits fibrous carbohydrates that help promote gut health. The ketogenic diet only allows for non-starchy carbohydrates such as spinach and kale to be eaten. Limiting grains and other starches that are high in fiber may worsen the conditions of Crohn’s disease by decreasing bowel movements that are needed to eliminate wastes and decrease inflammation. Starchy vegetables are still high in many plant chemicals that have protective effects in the body and eliminating these can impact immunity, which may also worsen symptoms of Crohn’s disease.