The ketogenic diet can have positive effects for your heart depending on how you follow it and what your individual risk factors are. Here are some of the possible benefits of the ketogenic diet for your heart health:
Lower blood pressure: The ketogenic diet can help lower blood pressure by reducing insulin resistance, inflammation, and water retention. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Improved cholesterol levels: The ketogenic diet can improve your cholesterol profile by increasing the proportion of large LDL particles that are neutral or protective against blood vessel injury, and decreasing the proportion of small LDL particles that promote heart disease. It can also raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower triglycerides (fat) in the blood.
Reduced inflammation: The ketogenic diet can reduce inflammation in the body by lowering blood sugar levels and oxidative stress. Inflammation is linked to many chronic diseases, including heart disease.
Better blood sugar control: The ketogenic diet can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Super-gasoline for the heart: The ketogenic diet can provide ketone bodies as an alternative fuel source for the heart, which may improve its function and efficiency. Some studies have suggested that ketone bodies can protect the heart from ischemia (lack of oxygen) and improve cardiac output.
If you are interested in trying the ketogenic diet for your heart health, it is important to consult with your doctor and a registered dietitian before starting. They can help you tailor the diet to your needs and goals, monitor your progress and health markers, and advise you on any supplements or medications you may need.
The ketogenic diet is not a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. It may work well for some people and not for others.
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