What is the Ketovore Diet?

The KetoVore diet is a hybrid of the popular ketogenic and carnivore diets. The diet emphasizes consuming high amounts of fats and animal proteins while limiting carbohydrate intake, with the goal of achieving a state of ketosis.

While proponents of the KetoVore diet argue that it can lead to weight loss and improved health markers, there are also significant risks and dangers associated with this dietary approach.

First and foremost, the KetoVore diet is extremely restrictive and eliminates entire food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. This can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are critical for overall health and wellbeing.

In addition, the high consumption of animal products, particularly red meat, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. The high-fat content of the diet can also contribute to the development of high cholesterol and other cardiovascular risks.

Another potential danger of the KetoVore diet is the risk of developing kidney stones. The high levels of animal protein in the diet can increase the amount of uric acid in the body, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Furthermore, the KetoVore diet can be difficult to sustain over the long term, particularly for individuals with underlying medical conditions or dietary restrictions. It may also be challenging to maintain social engagements and eating habits while following such a restrictive diet.

It is also worth noting that there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy and safety of the KetoVore diet. Many of the studies that have been conducted on the ketogenic diet and carnivore diet have been small-scale and have not been replicated on a larger scale.

The KetoVore diet is a highly restrictive and potentially dangerous dietary approach that should be approached with caution. While it may lead to weight loss and improved health markers, it can also contribute to deficiencies in essential nutrients and increase the risk of chronic illnesses. As with any dietary approach, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a KetoVore diet to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and circumstances.

Given the potential risks and dangers associated with the KetoVore diet, we do not recommend this dietary approach until more rigorous research is available.

William H. McDaniel, MD

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School.

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