One of the primary concerns about following keto is that it is a low-carb, high-fat diet. According to popular belief, a high-fat diet is not healthy for the heart, since fat clogs the arteries and accelerates heart disease.
But that’s not the fact. That’s not how heart disease occurs. While fats do not clog your arteries, the type of fat you consume can influence heart disease risk.
The question arises as to whether a keto diet is safe for someone with heart disease.
The answer to this is not so simple. Researchers have shown that ketones, a byproduct of ketosis, can be beneficial in a way because they reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and therefore help patients with cardiovascular diseases.
That means keto improves heart health.
Before jumping to a conclusion, let’s look at the reasons behind heart disease. This disease is also known as a cardiovascular disease since it is caused by a problem with the circulatory system. Having insufficient blood flow to different parts of our bodies may result in strokes, heart attacks, or plaque buildup in our arteries (also known as atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis is the main cause of most heart problems. Plaque formation is influenced by the blood markers LDL particles, inflammation (CRP, troponin), blood sugar, and blood pressure. High levels of LDL, triglycerides and low levels of HDL can cause cardiac problems.
Let’s see how keto impacts them.
Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies on the relationship between keto and cardiovascular diseases like heart attack, and stroke. However, some studies suggest the keto diet can reduce weight, blood sugar levels, LDL levels, triglycerides, and inflammation. All these changes result in a reduction in CVD risks.
So how can we reduce the risk of heart disease while following keto?
Certain fats like saturated fats and trans fats are not healthy for the heart. While on a keto diet, increase the number of polyunsaturated fats in your diet. You should avoid sugar, vegetable oils, and processed foods. Eat fish, avocados, and olives. Also regularly check your biomarkers to rule out CVD risks.
Last but not least, before switching over to any diet, you should speak with a registered dietician and follow up with your regular doctor.