Study Raises Red Flags: Extended Keto Eating May Disrupt Key Metabolic Functions

Lifestyle: The keto diet is adopted around the world for weight loss and blood sugar control, but new research from the University of Utah Health has raised concerns about its long-term effects. According to this study published in Science Advances, the keto diet appears beneficial initially, but after staying on this diet for months, the body undergoes changes that can seriously disrupt fat and sugar processing. This research was done on rats for several months.

What changes does keto diet cause in the body?

In keto diet, carbohydrates are almost eliminated, and fat is made the main source of energy. Initially this method helps in reducing weight and improving glucose level. But researchers found that when this diet continues for months, the body comes under pressure to constantly process fat.

Gradually this condition starts affecting both lipid management and blood sugar control.

Is the liver the biggest victim of this diet?

In research, fatty liver was seen developing rapidly in male rats. This is a sign that the body is no longer able to handle high amounts of fat. Fatty liver can lead to diabetes and heart diseases in future. This effect was less seen in female rats, which clearly shows that the response may be different depending on gender.

What problems remain hidden despite losing weight?

Mice living on keto diet did not become very fat, but the balance of glucose and insulin in their body was disturbed. During fasting, both glucose and insulin levels were found to be well below normal.

But as soon as they were given small amounts of carbohydrates, their sugar levels increased abnormally and did not stabilize for long—a sign that the body had 'forgotten' how to handle carbohydrates.

What was found in pancreas?

Digging deeper, it turned out that beta cells—which produce insulin—were under stress from the high fat content. Due to disturbances in protein processing, these cells were not able to respond normally to glucose. Some improvement was seen when the rats were taken off the keto diet and given normal food.

Are there danger signs for humans too?

There are definitely differences between the human body and rats, but this study warns that adopting a keto diet for a long time may not be completely safe. Most human studies focus only on initial results—such as weight loss. This new research indicates that in the long run this diet may put stress on the liver, pancreas and glucose control system.

Keto is beneficial, but not always safe

The quick results of the keto diet are tempting, but this research suggests that its long-term effects may be harsh and hidden. Risks like fatty liver, irregular blood sugar and stress within cells can be its price.