Is the Keto Diet Safe for Diabetics?

While the ketogenic (keto) diet has recently gained popularity as one of the new “it” diets, it’s important to think twice before starting any diet that severely restricts any food groups, especially if you're diabetic. The keto diet limits carbohydrates and encourages a high fat intake. 

Beth Freedman, MPH, RD, CDN, CDE, certified diabetes educator and diabetes program coordinator at Mercy Medical Center, said, "While keto diets may be beneficial for those suffering from seizures, this type of eating plan would not be recommended for patients with diabetes whose medications are working under the assumption that the person is eating carbohydrates.

Additionally, carbohydrates are our main source of energy and should represent 45-65% of our daily intake. The keto diet is not sustainable over a long period of time and a new study shows that it can even be detrimental when a person starts eating carbohydrates again, possibly leading to a carbohydrate intolerance and/or diabetes. Because the ketogenic diet is a high fat diet it may also be detrimental to overall heart health including cholesterol levels."

The bottom line: think of eating as a meal plan, not a diet. Be sure to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats every day.

For more information, visit www.chsli.org or call 1-855-CHS-4500.