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Ketosis and joint pain. Ketogenic Diet and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Impact on Joint Pain and Inflammation

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Can the ketogenic diet help reduce joint pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Is keto a suitable dietary approach for managing RA symptoms. What are the potential risks and benefits of following a ketogenic diet for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

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The Ketogenic Diet: A Brief Overview

The ketogenic diet, commonly known as keto, has gained significant popularity in recent years as a weight loss strategy. This high-fat, low-carb dietary approach aims to force the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. While many people have reported success with weight loss on the keto diet, its effects on inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are more complex and controversial.

How does the ketogenic diet work?

The ketogenic diet typically involves:

  • Drastically reducing carbohydrate intake (usually to less than 50g per day)
  • Increasing fat consumption to 70-80% of total caloric intake
  • Moderate protein intake (about 20% of calories)
  • Eliminating or severely restricting grains, fruits, and many vegetables

This macronutrient shift aims to induce a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body relies primarily on ketones (derived from fat) for energy rather than glucose from carbohydrates.

Ketosis and Its Potential Impact on Joint Pain

The relationship between ketosis and joint pain is complex and not fully understood. While some proponents suggest that the ketogenic diet may help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain, the scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited and mixed.

Potential benefits of ketosis for joint health

Some proposed mechanisms by which ketosis might potentially benefit joint health include:

  1. Reduced inflammation: Some studies suggest that ketones may have anti-inflammatory properties.
  2. Weight loss: Shedding excess pounds can reduce stress on joints, potentially alleviating pain.
  3. Decreased oxidative stress: Ketones may help protect cells from oxidative damage.

Concerns about ketosis and joint health

Despite potential benefits, there are several concerns about the impact of ketosis on joint health:

  • Increased inflammation from saturated fats
  • Nutrient deficiencies due to restricted food choices
  • Potential exacerbation of existing inflammatory conditions

The Keto Diet and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Controversial Relationship

When it comes to rheumatoid arthritis, the ketogenic diet’s potential effects are particularly contentious. While some individuals with RA report improvements in symptoms on a keto diet, many experts express concerns about its suitability for managing this autoimmune condition.

Expert opinions on keto for RA

Dr. Lona Sandon, PhD, RDN, an associate professor in the department of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern in Dallas who also has rheumatoid arthritis, strongly advises against the ketogenic diet for people with RA. She states, “It’s not a good choice for people with systemic inflammatory conditions, because it completely goes against the science we know that prevents inflammation in the body.”

Why keto may not be joint-friendly for RA patients

Several factors contribute to the potential unsuitability of the ketogenic diet for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis:

  1. High saturated fat content: The keto diet often relies heavily on saturated fats, which can increase inflammation markers in the body.
  2. Nutrient deficiencies: Eliminating entire food groups may deprive the body of essential vitamins and minerals crucial for managing RA.
  3. Increased inflammatory compounds: Certain fatty acids found in red meats, often consumed in higher quantities on a keto diet, can promote cytokines and leukotrienes that exacerbate inflammation and joint damage.

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis

While the ketogenic diet may not be ideal for individuals with RA, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing symptoms and overall health. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce joint pain, swelling, and fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Key nutrients for RA management

Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from focusing on the following nutrients:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
  • Antioxidants: Abundant in colorful fruits and vegetables
  • Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immune function
  • Fiber: Helps reduce inflammation and supports gut health

The Mediterranean Diet: A Better Alternative for RA Patients

Many experts recommend the Mediterranean diet as a more suitable approach for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. This eating pattern emphasizes plant-based foods, healthy fats, and moderate amounts of lean protein.

Benefits of the Mediterranean diet for RA

The Mediterranean diet offers several advantages for people with rheumatoid arthritis:

  1. Rich in anti-inflammatory foods
  2. Provides a wide range of essential nutrients
  3. Supports heart health and overall well-being
  4. Allows for greater dietary flexibility and sustainability

Research published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition in November 2017 investigated dietary interventions for rheumatoid arthritis and determined that an ideal meal would include raw or moderately cooked vegetables (lots of greens and legumes), with the addition of spices like turmeric and ginger, seasonal fruits, and probiotic yogurt. These foods are good sources of natural antioxidants and deliver anti-inflammatory effects.

The ITIS Diet: A Promising Approach for RA Symptom Management

Recent research has shed light on a new dietary approach specifically tailored for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The ITIS (inflammation) diet, based on the Mediterranean diet but focusing on specific anti-inflammatory foods, has shown promising results in managing RA symptoms.

What is the ITIS diet?

The ITIS diet is a modified version of the Mediterranean diet that emphasizes:

  • Foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties
  • Specific ingredients that may help reduce pain and inflammation
  • A balance of nutrients to support overall health and well-being

Research findings on the ITIS diet

A study presented at the 2021 American College of Rheumatology Convergence virtual conference reported that participants following the ITIS diet experienced:

  1. Reduced pain levels
  2. Decreased joint swelling
  3. Approximately 50% reduction in fatigue for some individuals

These findings suggest that the ITIS diet may be a promising dietary approach for managing RA symptoms and improving quality of life for those living with the condition.

Personalized Nutrition for Rheumatoid Arthritis Management

While certain dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean and ITIS diets, show promise for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, it’s important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Individual responses to different foods and dietary patterns can vary significantly.

Factors influencing dietary responses in RA

Several factors may influence how an individual with RA responds to different dietary approaches:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Gut microbiome composition
  • Overall health status and comorbidities
  • Medication regimens
  • Lifestyle factors (e.g., stress levels, physical activity)

Working with healthcare professionals

Given the complexity of managing rheumatoid arthritis through diet, it’s crucial for individuals to work closely with their healthcare team, including rheumatologists and registered dietitians. These professionals can help:

  1. Assess individual nutritional needs
  2. Identify potential food triggers or sensitivities
  3. Develop personalized dietary strategies
  4. Monitor progress and adjust recommendations as needed

As Christine Palumbo, RD, a nutrition expert in Naperville, Illinois, notes, “When it comes to minimizing the symptoms of RA, no one diet works for everyone. It depends on the person.”

Lifestyle Factors Beyond Diet for Managing RA

While nutrition plays a crucial role in managing rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important to consider other lifestyle factors that can impact symptoms and overall well-being. A comprehensive approach to RA management often includes:

Exercise and physical activity

Regular, low-impact exercise can help:

  • Improve joint flexibility and range of motion
  • Strengthen muscles supporting affected joints
  • Reduce pain and stiffness
  • Boost overall energy levels and mood

Stress management techniques

Chronic stress can exacerbate RA symptoms. Effective stress management strategies may include:

  1. Mindfulness meditation
  2. Deep breathing exercises
  3. Yoga or tai chi
  4. Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Adequate sleep and rest

Proper sleep hygiene and rest are essential for managing RA symptoms. Tips for improving sleep quality include:

  • Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
  • Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
  • Optimizing the sleep environment (e.g., comfortable mattress, cool temperature)
  • Limiting screen time before bed

The Future of Nutrition Research in Rheumatoid Arthritis

As our understanding of the complex relationship between diet and rheumatoid arthritis continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for nutritional interventions. Some promising areas of investigation include:

Gut microbiome and RA

Emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome may play a significant role in RA development and progression. Future studies may focus on:

  1. Identifying specific bacterial strains associated with RA
  2. Developing targeted probiotic therapies
  3. Exploring the impact of prebiotic foods on RA symptoms

Nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition

The field of nutrigenomics, which examines the interaction between genes and diet, holds promise for developing more personalized nutritional approaches for RA management. Future research may:

  • Identify genetic markers that influence dietary responses in RA patients
  • Develop tailored nutritional recommendations based on individual genetic profiles
  • Explore gene-diet interactions that may influence RA risk and progression

Novel anti-inflammatory compounds

Ongoing research is investigating the potential of various natural compounds for their anti-inflammatory properties. Some areas of interest include:

  1. Polyphenols found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs
  2. Omega-3 fatty acid derivatives with enhanced anti-inflammatory effects
  3. Bioactive peptides from plant and animal sources

As research in these areas progresses, it may lead to more effective and personalized dietary strategies for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and improving overall quality of life for those living with the condition.

Will Keto Help Reduce Rheumatoid Arthritis Joint Pain + Inflammation?

It can be beneficial to drop extra weight when you have joint pain, but it’s important to shed it wisely. The nutrients you eat, whether you’re on a diet or not, are the essential ingredients for good health. The ketogenic diet, the buzzworthy high-fat, low-carb plan commonly called keto, is based on the idea that cutting out carbohydrates — the body’s primary source of energy — forces the body to burn fat for fuel, supercharging your weight loss.

RELATED: The Best Foods to Add to Your Diet to Fight Rheumatoid Arthritis

But eliminating grains, fruits, many vegetables, as well as other healthy foods from your diet depletes your body of the vitamins and minerals you need to stay in balance. “It’s not a good choice for people with systemic inflammatory conditions, because it completely goes against the science we know that prevents inflammation in the body,” says Lona Sandon, PhD, RDN, an associate professor in the department of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern in Dallas, who also has rheumatoid arthritis.

Why Keto Isn’t Joint-Friendly

Extra weight isn’t ideal for anybody’s joint health, so deciding to shed some pounds if you’re overweight is a wise choice. But the keto diet is very high in saturated fat — which can help you feel satisfied but can increase inflammation markers, or signs of inflammation measured by blood tests. “The type of fat you eat matters. Poly- and monounsaturated fats that come from foods such as fish, walnuts, and olive oil are best to help decrease inflammation, which is the root cause of joint pain. This diet is higher in the fats that promote inflammation,” says Dr. Sandon. “If your keto diet contains a fair amount of red meat, you will be eating more of the types of saturated fats that increase the inflammatory compounds that make you feel worse.” One type of fatty acid that’s found in higher amounts in red meats promotes the cytokines and leukotrienes that cause more damage and inflammation in the body, according to Sandon.

Plus, if you eliminate entire food groups from your diet — and in turn essential nutrients — you’ll deprive your body of optimal nutrition. “It is absolutely terrible for people with RA,” says Sandon. “People with RA need more antioxidant vitamins [which are found in fruits and vegetables] than those who do not live with a chronic inflammatory disorder.”

RELATED: Does the Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP) Help Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Why Keto Is a Short-Term Weight Loss Fix

The goal of the keto diet is to get your body into a state of ketosis, which is when you don’t have enough carbohydrates to burn for energy, and you start to burn fat instead. “If you can get through the first three days to get into ketosis, it can help shut down appetite and control cravings,” says Sandon. “From a weight loss perspective, it can be effective in the short term. But eventually you do get hungry, and you need to get back to eating regular food again.”

The Better Way to Eat to Control Inflammation

Many experts agree that the Mediterranean diet is advised for people who have RA, as well as other types of arthritis. It emphasizes a plant-based eating approach, loaded with vegetables and healthy fats, including olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids from fish.

It is the only diet suggested in the American College of Rheumatology’s draft guidelines for integrative treatment of RA. It’s also the dietary approach with the most solid data behind it. Research published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition in November 2017 investigated dietary interventions for rheumatoid arthritis and determined that an ideal meal would include raw or moderately cooked vegetables (lots of greens and legumes), with the addition of spices like turmeric and ginger, seasonal fruits, and probiotic yogurt — all of which are good sources of natural antioxidants and deliver anti-inflammatory effects. They also recommend avoiding processed foods, foods with high sodium levels, oils, butter, sugar, and animal products.

RELATED: 10 Foods That Fight Inflammation

The ITIS Diet May Help Ease Fatigue, Joint Swelling, and Other RA Symptoms

Research presented at the 2021 American College of Rheumatology Convergence virtual conference found that the ITIS, or inflammation diet, which is based on the Mediterranean diet but pinpoints specific foods known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing qualities, helped study participants report less pain, swelling, and for some, about half the fatigue they typically experience while living with RA.

Is There a Perfect Diet for People With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

When it comes to minimizing the symptoms of RA, no one diet works for everyone. “It depends on the person,” says Christine Palumbo, RD, a nutrition expert in Naperville, Illinois. “For some people, gluten can be a trigger. For others, salmon, nuts, or eggplant can be inflammatory.” She suggests that people who have joint pain associated with RA should consider food sensitivity testing or try an elimination or exclusion diet where you avoid common culprit foods, such as dairy, gluten, nightshade vegetables (which include tomatoes, white potatoes, and bell peppers), and alcohol.

Why Keto Isn’t Healthy for Your Joints

Carrying extra weight isn’t ideal for anybody’s joint health, so deciding to lose weight is a wise choice. But the keto diet is very high in saturated fat — which can help you feel satisfied but can increase inflammation markers, or signs of inflammation measured by blood tests. “The type of fat you eat matters, poly and monounsaturated fats that come from foods such as fish, walnuts, and olive oil are best to help decrease inflammation, which is the root cause of joint pain. This diet is higher in the fats that promote inflammation,” says Dr. Sandon. “If your keto diet contains a fair amount of red meat, you will be eating more of the types of saturated fats that increase the inflammatory compounds that make you feel worse.” One type of fatty acid that’s found in higher amounts in red meats promotes the cytokines and leukotrienes that cause more damage and inflammation in the body, according to Sandon.

Plus, eliminating entire food groups from your diet — and in turn essential nutrients — is depriving your body of optimal nutrition. “It is absolutely terrible for people with RA,” says Sandon. “People with RA need more antioxidant vitamins [which are found in fruits and vegetables] that those who do not live with a chronic inflammatory disorder.”

RELATED: Does the Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP) Help Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Why Keto Is a Short-Term Weight Loss Fix

The goal of the keto diet is to get your body into a state of ketosis, which is when your body doesn’t have enough carbohydrates to burn for energy, so it starts to burn fat instead. “If you can get through the first three days to get into ketosis, it can help to shut down appetite and control cravings,” says Sandon. “From a weight loss perspective, it can be effective in the short term. But eventually you do get hungry, and you need to get back to eating regular food again.”

The Better Way to Eat to Help Control Inflammation

Many experts agree that the Mediterranean diet is advised for people who have RA, as well as other types of arthritis. It emphasizes a plant-based eating approach, loaded with vegetables and healthy fats, including olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids from fish.

It’s also the dietary approach with the most solid data behind it. Research published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition investigated dietary interventions for rheumatoid arthritis and determined that an ideal meal would include raw or moderately cooked vegetables (lots of greens and legumes), with the addition of spices like turmeric and ginger, seasonal fruits, and probiotic yogurt — all of which are good sources of natural antioxidants and deliver anti-inflammatory effects. They also recommend avoiding processed foods, foods with high sodium levels, oils, butter, sugar, and animal products.

RELATED: 10 Foods That Fight Inflammation

The ITIS Diet May Help Ease Fatigue, Joint Swelling, and Other RA Symptoms

Research presented at the 2021 American College of Rheumatology Convergence virtual conference found that the ITIS, or inflammation diet, which is based on the Mediterranean Diet but pinpoints specific foods known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing qualities, helped study participants report less pain, swelling, and for some, about half the fatigue they typically experience while living with RA.

Is There a Perfect Diet for People With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

When it comes to minimizing the symptoms of RA, no one diet works for everyone. “It depends on the person,” says Christine Palumbo, RD, a nutrition expert in Naperville, Illinois. “For some people, gluten can be a trigger. For others, salmon, nuts, or eggplant can be inflammatory.” She suggests that people who have joint pain associated with RA should consider food sensitivity testing or try an elimination or exclusion diet where you avoid common culprit foods, such as dairy, gluten, nightshade vegetables (which include tomatoes, white potatoes, and bell peppers), and alcohol.

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Keto Flu: Symptoms, Causes & How to Fix it

Last updated on September 9th, 2022

Nowadays, many people are going after the ketogenic diet for weight management. Lowering the carb consumption to a minimum might aid in losing a few pounds. That too, in the initial few weeks to months. Any treatment may result in undesirable outcomes. And, the ketogenic diet is no different. One of the most well-exposed complications of ketosis is known as “keto flu.”

Table of Contents

What is Keto Flu?

Keto flu is a range of signs that might arise 2-7 days after initiating a ketogenic diet. Some of the common signs include weakness, headache, nausea, irritation, sleeping problems, and constipation. It is hard to explain exactly what takes place after altering one’s diet. As, it completely depends upon individual’s observations and experiences. These signs might not be exceptional to the ketogenic diet. Few patients may notice similar signs after reducing intake of processed foods. While, few may decide to follow an elimination or an anti-inflammatory diet.

Source: Keto-mojo.com

Keto Flu Causes 

A person’s major energy source is carbohydrate. While on keto diet, individual lowers his or her carb consumption to below 50 grams per day. This can be compared with the advisable value i.e., 200 to 300 grams per day.

When the body fails to consume enough carbs for energy, the liver starts forming sugar, using its stores. This process is known as glucogenesis. Thus, liver won’t be capable of producing enough glucose to maintain the energy demands of the body.

Then, the body begins to break down fatty acids. This results in production of ketone bodies. Process is known as ketogenesis. Body tissues then make use of ketone bodies as fuel. And, the person goes in the state of ketosis.

The deficiency of carbs reduces the amount of insulin in the blood. Consequently, individuals might experience an increase in the quantity of sodium, potassium, and water liberated in the urine. And, this causes dehydration.

Also Read: Normal Blood Sugar Levels

Signs of Keto Flu

Converting to a very low-carbohydrate diet is a drastic change. And, a person’s body might require time to acclimatize to this new way of consuming. For a few individuals, this transition period might be extremely challenging. Symptoms of keto flu might begin cropping up within some days of decreasing carbs. Signs can be mild to severe and may differ from individual to individual. Also, few individuals might change to a ketogenic diet without any side effects. And, other might experience one or more of the following signs:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • muscle cramps and pain
  • irritation
  • drowsiness
  • fatigue
  • sugar cravings
  • constipation
  • diarrhoea
  • headache
  • stomach pain
  • poor concentration
  • difficulty sleeping

These signs commonly occur in people who have just started the ketogenic diet. Signs might be upsetting and they typically last about a week. Few individuals might experience them for a longer duration of time.

Also Read: HbA1c Normal Range

What to Do For Keto Flu?

Protecting the body from damage of chronic inflammation can be the first step. Chronic, low-grade inflammation might turn into a silent killer. And, this may add to heart diseases, cancer, type 2 diabetes and other chronic problems. Keto flu may leave a person feeling miserable. Fortunately, there are ways to lower down its flu-like signs. Also, they aid a person’s body go through the transition period more easily.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking a sufficient amount of water maintains optimal health. Also, it might help in lowering down the signs. A keto diet may result in a rapid fall of water stores. Thus, increasing the risk of dehydration. This is due to the reason that glycogen (stored form of carbs) binds to water in the body. With the decrease in the dietary carbs, there is a drop in the levels of glycogen. This increases the water excretion from the body. Hydration helps with signs such as fatigue and muscle cramping. Fluid replacement is particularly important. That too, when a person is experiencing keto-flu-related diarrhoea, which may result in an additional fluid loss.

Replace Electrolytes

Dietary electrolytes replacement helps in lowering the signs of keto-flu. While following a ketogenic diet, insulin levels reduce. Insulin is a vital hormone that helps the body absorb glucose from the blood. With a reduction in the insulin levels, kidneys liberate an excess sodium from the body. A keto diet limits a lot of foods rich in potassium. These may include fruits, beans and starchy veggies. Receiving sufficient amounts of these vital nutrients is a superb way to power through the adaptation duration of the diet. Adding potassium-rich, keto-friendly foods such as leafy greens and avocados are an outstanding way of maintaining a healthy balance of electrolytes. These foods contain high amounts of magnesium. And, this mineral helps in decreasing muscle cramps, sleep issues and headaches.

Also Read: Can Quitting Smoking Reverses Diabetes?

Avoid Hard Exercise

Exercise is vital for staying healthy and maintaining a controlled weight. Avoid strenuous exercise while experiencing keto-flu signs. Fatigue, stomach discomfort, and muscle cramps commonly occur in the initial week of following a ketogenic diet. Thus, it might be a good idea to take rest. Activities such as biking, running, weight lifting and harsh workouts might need to be put on the back burner while the body adapts to new fuel sources. Avoid such types of exercise if a person experiences the keto flu. In such cases, light activities such as walking, yoga or leisure biking may improve signs.

Get Enough Sleep

Fatigue and irritation are a few common complaints of individuals who are adapting to a ketogenic diet. Deficient sleep may result in increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol. And, this may negatively affect a person’s mood and worsen the keto-flu signs.

Using Mints

Individuals also use mints to cover keto breath. Slurping mints or chewing mint gum helps in hiding the smell of keto breath. Chewing gum also enhances the amount of saliva produced by a person. And, this helps in preventing the bacterial growth in a person’s mouth. Bacteria which is responsible for bad breath. As per a study, lack of saliva might be a cause of bad breath in the morning. During the night, an individual’s mouth forms less saliva. And, this lets more bacteria to grow.

If a person is facing a difficult time falling or staying asleep, try these tips:

  • Wake up early: Wake up at the same time daily. Also, avoid oversleeping. Both these help in normalizing the sleep patterns and improves the quality of sleep.
  • Lower down the intake of caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant having a negative impact on the sleep. If a person consumes caffeinated drinks, have them only in the morning. This won’t affect their sleep patterns.
  • Take a bath: Including Epsom salt or lavender oil to bath is a relaxing way to relax and sleep properly.
  • Ensure enough fat and carbs in the diet. 
  • Reduce ambient light: Switch off cell phones, televisions, or computers in the bedroom. This creates a dark ambience and supports a relaxing sleep.

Having enough fat (primary energy source) helps in decreasing cravings. Also, they keep a person feeling satisfied. Low-carb diets aid in lowering cravings for sweets and high-carb foods.

Also Read: Glycomet GP1 Tablet For Diabetes

Why Do People Get This Keto Flu?

People acclimatize to ketogenic diets in a different way. Few might experience weeks of keto-flu signs, while others might adapt to the new diet with no ill effects. The signs individuals experience relates to how their bodies adapt to a new energy source. Carbohydrates offer energy to the body in the form of glucose. On reducing the carbohydrates, body burns ketones from fat rather than glucose.

People who have lots of carbs, particularly refined carbs (pasta, sugary cereal and soda) might face a more difficult time while starting a ketogenic diet. As a result, the change to a high-fat, very low-carb diet can become a battle for few. Whereas, others might be capable of changing fuel sources easily with slight to no keto-flu signs.

The reason why individuals adapt to ketogenic diets than others remain unknown. However, genetics, loss of electrolytes, carbs withdrawal, or dehydration are known to be the driving forces behind the keto flu.

How Long Keto Flu Persists?

The painful signs of the keto flu only persist for about a week for many individuals. Yet, few individuals might face a more difficult time familiarizing to this high-fat, low-carb diet. For such people, signs might persist for a number of weeks. Such signs would slowly reduce as a person’s body gets used to changing ketones into energy. The signs of keto-flu are commonly reported by people shifting to a ketogenic diet.

Summary

Individuals with keto flu usually report abdominal signs, headaches, and weakness. The Keto diet is safe and the signs are generally minor and acute. Healthcare providers agree that the keto diet needs strict medical attention to be efficacious for weight loss. To reduce the risk of complications, individuals must begin the diet gradually and visit their doctors regularly. In addition, dietitians may help with easing into the dietary modifications. Incorporating certain dietary changes like having enough fluids and electrolytes helps in managing the signs of keto flu.

FAQs:

Why does a person feel weak on keto?

With inadequate energy in the form of fats, individuals might experience feelings of fatigue or weakness on keto. They’re not consuming in a regular manner. A person’s meal schedule might also have an effect on their energy levels. Consuming regularly is one of the appropriate ways to deliver plenty energy to the body.

Is joint pain a sign of keto flu?

Keto diet contains a rich amount of purine foods. Purine is a chemical that a person’s body breaks down into uric acid. Gout occurs when there’s an excess of uric acid in the blood. Too much of uric acid may produce needle-like crystals in a joint. And, this may result in pain, tenderness, inflammation, and redness.

Does every person get keto flu?

Keto flu is somewhat non-specific and not every person gets it. But nutritionists portray it as just usually not feeling well.

How long after beginning keto does a person gets the keto flu?

Keto flu is a range of signs that might arise 2-7 days after beginning a ketogenic diet. Headache, irritation, nausea, foggy brain, weakness, difficulty sleeping, and constipation are a few signs of this condition.

References:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/keto-flu-symptoms#how-long-it-lasts
  2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326276