Explore the ketogenic diet, its benefits, misconceptions, and therapeutic applications in treating neurological, gynecological, and metabolic conditions. Learn how to use it effectively and responsibly.
Is it high-protein? Does it damage the kidneys? Is it a valid diet?
These are some of the most common questions I’ve been asked recently, and I’ve addressed them multiple times, including during themed Facebook live sessions.
Here’s a clear answer to each question:
What is a Ketogenic Diet?
The ketogenic diet is a nutritional regimen that induces the body into a state of physiological nutritional ketosis – which is different from ketoacidosis (a pathological condition) that can potentially occur in an uncontrolled diabetic patient.
Is it a “fad diet”?
NO. Contrary to popular belief, it should not be considered one of the many trendy or “fad diets.”
It was developed in the 1920s to combat epilepsy and to treat certain drug-resistant patients.
Is it just for weight loss?
ABSOLUTELY NOT.
KETOGENIC DIET: Is it really for everyone?
Today, it is widely studied, and there are numerous studies demonstrating its validity as a diet therapy in various clinical fields:
- For the treatment of several degenerative diseases
- Neurological conditions
- Oncology patients
- Gynecological issues (scientific studies show excellent results in improving symptoms and conditions in patients with endometriosis and PCOS – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Fertility, for those undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatments
- Patients with metabolic imbalances (metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, obesity treatment)
- And, of course, for weight loss.
A colleague/friend of mine, also a nutritionist-biologist, and I specialized in ketogenic diets through a University Advanced Course. We’ve studied its application even in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, including Fibromyalgia.
Is it high-protein? Does it damage the kidneys?
NO. The amount of protein is comparable to what is recommended by guidelines for healthy eating – so it is NOT high-protein and does NOT damage the kidneys. However, this is only true when applied to the correct patient. For instance, it should not be used in patients with kidney disease, renal failure, or an otherwise compromised clinical condition.
In a classic ketogenic diet, approximately:
- 80% of calories come from fats,
- 15% from proteins,
- Only 5% from carbohydrates.
“Ketogenic diet” or “ketogenic diets”?
It is incorrect to speak of “the ketogenic diet” in the singular.
It is more accurate to refer to “ketogenic diets” (plural), as there are different types depending on the clinical condition and objective.
What they all have in common is a normal protein intake and a very low carbohydrate intake.
In fact, it is the carbohydrate restriction that forces the body to undergo a metabolic switch, starting to burn fats as its primary energy source.
What varies in a ketogenic protocol is the percentage of fats.
It all depends on the purpose for which it is applied. For example, it could be:
- Normolipidic
- Hypolipidic
- Hyperlipidic
When I formulate a ketogenic diet, the choice of which protocol to apply depends on:
- The GOAL for using a ketogenic protocol
- The patient’s nutritional and clinical status
- The patient themselves
Is the ketogenic diet for everyone?
Absolutely NOT. It is contraindicated in patients with:
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Severe renal failure
- Severe liver failure
- Severe heart failure
- Serious psychiatric disorders
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Growing adolescents
- Overt hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (in such cases, I consult with an endocrinologist first. The decision depends on the patient’s clinical parameters).
Is it a valid diet?
ABSOLUTELY YES, but,
you need to understand it and use it WELL.
In the RIGHT way.
Apply it to the right patient.
At the right time.
Dr. Giovanna Maraula
Functional Nutritionist and Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner.
From battling my own health struggles to regaining balance through science and nutrition, my journey led me to create a method that’s transforming lives—naturally.
