The keto diet is one of the most common diets these days, but the death of actress Misty Mukherjee due to this diet, which caused her kidney failure caused by “keto”, raised controversy about this diet and the risks of following this diet
Mukherjee’s death raised a series of questions about the health risks of dieting. As such, it becomes important to understand what may have led to her poor health and death.
What is the keto diet?
According to Indianexpress.com, consuming large amounts of fats requires adequate amounts of protein and fewer carbohydrates. Also known as KD, this diet is especially followed by people with diabetes because it can cause significant drops in blood sugar and insulin levels.
Nutritionist Ruchi Sharma says that the keto diet “is mainly used to help reduce seizures in children who suffer from epilepsy.” “Avoiding carbohydrates and replacing them with protein and fats has become a major tenet among those looking to lose weight quickly,” she says.
How does the keto diet lead to kidney failure?
Dr Pradeep Shah, Consultant Physician at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, explained to the website: “This is a rare condition and it usually occurs when there is a pre-existing disease and someone continues to follow the diet. The keto diet requires a high intake of fats along with protein and few carbohydrates. When a person continues to do this, it affects the kidneys. ”
Sharma added: “We see people do the keto diet with processed cheese and butter, which when done for long periods of time, can increase the risk of high cholesterol in the blood. Also, too much protein can put a strain on the kidneys. When we eat a high amount of protein while on the keto diet, this may lead to an increased load on the kidneys. ”
Dramatically reducing carbohydrates results in kidney fatigue and results in getting rid of all the waste products of protein metabolism.
Dr. Shah suggests that a person should follow the diet for only six months. If they continue, they need to take a break for at least one to two months, and then carry on.
Are there other diets that can lead to organ failure?
Dr Shah explained that any diet that includes fewer carbohydrates for a longer period can cause failure. However, another specific diet is the “paleo diet” also known as the “stone age diet.” It is a modern diet that requires one to reflect the type of diet followed during the Paleolithic period.
In addition, “consuming sugary drinks such as soft drinks or soft drinks and highly processed foods frequently, can harm the kidneys.”
While many diseases, toxins, and different drugs can lead to kidney failure, the most common causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure which can damage delicate blood vessels and kidney tissues. “When these two things are not addressed, chronic kidney disease – and kidney failure ultimately – can be the result,” Sharma says.
Instead of following the keto diet, he suggests that we choose a well-formulated low-carb diet, which is not usually high in protein and can help reduce and maintain weight.
He advised: “Choose foods that are healthy for your entire heart and body – such as fresh fruits, rainbow greens, whole grains, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Make physical activity part of your routine, because sweating also helps detoxify, ”says the nutritionist.
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