Keto Diet Risks: Research Links Prolonged Use to Liver Damage

The ketogenic, or keto diet, has become one of the most popular weight-loss strategies worldwide. According to the publication from pafikutaikab.org by drastically reducing carbohydrates and increasing fat intake, the diet pushes the body into a metabolic state called ketosis, where fat is burned for energy instead of glucose. While many people report short-term success in weight reduction, new research warns that long-term adherence to the keto diet may harm liver health, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease.

What the Study Found

A recent study published in a peer-reviewed nutrition journal examined the effects of prolonged keto dieting on liver function. Researchers found that individuals who followed the diet for extended periods showed a higher tendency to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where fat accumulates in the liver.

The study also highlighted that high-fat diets, particularly when rich in saturated fats, can strain the liver’s ability to process fat efficiently. Over time, this may lead to inflammation, scarring, and in severe cases, liver failure.

“Short-term keto can be beneficial for weight loss and blood sugar control,” said Dr. Meera Suryani, a nutrition specialist. “But if maintained for years without proper medical supervision, the risks to liver health become concerning.”

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Why the Liver Is Affected

The keto diet emphasizes fats as the primary source of energy, which means the liver must work harder to metabolize these fats into ketones. For some people, especially those with underlying metabolic issues, this extra workload can contribute to fat buildup in the liver.

Moreover, the exclusion of many carbohydrate-rich foods often reduces fiber intake, which is essential for gut and liver health. A lack of dietary balance may further increase long-term risks.

Short-Term Benefits vs. Long-Term Risks

Doctors acknowledge that the keto diet can provide benefits in the short run, such as:

• Rapid weight loss.
• Improved insulin sensitivity for some individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Reduced cravings due to stable blood sugar levels.

However, experts caution that the long-term risks may outweigh these benefits. In addition to liver concerns, prolonged keto has been associated with increased cholesterol levels, kidney strain, and micronutrient deficiencies.

Who Should Be Careful?

While not everyone who follows keto will develop liver problems, certain groups are more vulnerable:

• People with a family history of liver disease.
• Individuals with high cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Those who consume excessive amounts of saturated fats without balancing them with healthier fats, such as omega-3s.

Doctors recommend regular medical check-ups, including liver function tests, for anyone who plans to follow the keto diet beyond several months.

Safer Alternatives and Precautions

Nutritionists suggest considering a modified low-carb diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, rather than a strict keto approach.

“Balance is key,” Dr. Meera notes. “It’s not about avoiding carbs completely but about choosing the right ones—like whole grains and fiber-rich vegetables—while still controlling portions.”

The keto diet may deliver quick results, but health experts warn that long-term use could put the liver at risk of fatty liver disease and other complications. Those considering keto as a lifestyle choice should consult healthcare professionals, monitor their liver health, and explore more sustainable dietary approaches for long-term well-being.

As the research shows, weight loss should not come at the cost of liver health—balance and moderation remain the safest path forward.

Source: https://pafikutaikab.org/