Drawbacks of the Keto Diet
The keto diet has gained considerable popularity among those aiming to shed pounds, especially individuals looking to lose visceral fat, similar to the case study involving a certain man. Many anecdotal reports suggest that the keto diet can help people lose weight quickly while also enhancing stamina and mental clarity. However, substantial clinical evidence supporting these assertions is insufficient, and medical professionals have expressed concerns about its potential long-term impacts on cardiovascular health and other aspects.
There are several notable disadvantages to consider when it comes to this diet. Ketones, which are produced during ketosis, are acidic; if they accumulate excessively in the bloodstream, they can lead to toxicity known as ketoacidosis. This condition poses a significant risk, particularly for individuals with type 1 diabetes or those who misuse alcohol. For the rest of the population, there exists a range of common side effects associated with the diet, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, bad breath, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. Additionally, ketogenic diets have been linked to elevated cholesterol levels and the formation of kidney stones.
One lesser-known yet established side effect of the keto diet is the “keto rash,” scientifically referred to as prurigo pigmentosa. This condition manifests as red, raised, itchy bumps on the neck, chest, and back, often accompanied by areas of hyperpigmentation, reflecting the symptoms experienced by the man in the study.
Originally identified in Japan in 1971, this rash primarily affected women. While there has been a consistent association with metabolic disorders and changes in diet, experts are still puzzled by its precise cause. It appears not only in individuals adhering to a keto diet but also in those with diabetes, individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery, and those engaged in fasting.
A recent review conducted by researchers in Saudi Arabia proposed a leading theory: elevated ketone levels in the bloodstream may incite inflammation around blood vessels, triggered by a type of white blood cell known as neutrophils. This inflammation is thought to be responsible for the progression of the rash, which develops in various stages.
Despite the ongoing uncertainties surrounding this condition, effective treatments have been identified. The most common approach involves bringing the individual out of ketosis and administering an antibiotic from the tetracycline class. While antibiotics are typically used to combat bacterial infections, they can also help reduce inflammation and inhibit the activity of neutrophils.
In the man’s case, doctors prescribed a two-week regimen of doxycycline and recommended discontinuing the keto diet. Remarkably, just a week later, the rash had resolved.
