NEW YORK, Aug 11: A new study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals significant differences in health outcomes between low-carb ketogenic (keto) diets and low-free sugar diets. Conducted over 12 weeks with 53 participants, the study examined the effects of these diets on weight loss and metabolism.

Both the keto and low-free sugar diets led to reductions in fat mass—2.9 kg and 2.1 kg, respectively. These results were not influenced by physical activity levels, which remained consistent across all groups.

However, the keto diet was associated with increased levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol and decreased beneficial gut bacteria. Participants on the keto diet had higher levels of small and medium-sized LDL particles, which are linked to cardiovascular disease. Additionally, they showed increased levels of apolipoprotein B (apoB), a marker for atherosclerosis.

In contrast, the low-free sugar diet significantly reduced LDL cholesterol and did not exhibit negative effects on gut health or cardiovascular risk.

Dr. Javier Gonzalez from the University of Bath highlighted that while the keto diet improved fasting glucose levels, it also raised cholesterol markers and impacted gut microbiota negatively. He emphasized the need for further research to understand individual responses to ketogenic diets and explore potential ways to mitigate adverse effects.

Nutritionist Sarah Herrington noted that long-term adherence to a keto diet might lead to decreased gut microbiome diversity and worsened glucose tolerance upon reintroducing sugars and carbohydrates. She suggested that while keto diets can offer short-term benefits, they may pose risks to overall health in the long run.

Overall, while both low-sugar and keto diets can aid in weight loss, the study underscores the need for caution with the keto diet due to its associated health risks.