The ketogenic diet may have a range of health benefits. However, staying on the ketogenic diet long-term can have an adverse effect on health, including an increased risk of the following health problems: kidney stones, excess protein in the blood, mineral and vitamin deficiencies, a buildup of fat in the liver.
The Keto diet can cause adverse side effects that many people know as Keto flu. These adverse effects may include: constipation, fatigue, low blood sugar, nausea, vomiting, headaches, a low tolerance for exercise. These symptoms are especially common at the beginning of the diet as the body adjusts to its new energy source. Some populations should avoid the Keto diet, including: people with diabetes who are insulin-dependent, people who have eating disorders, those with kidney disease or pancreatitis, women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
People who take a type of medication called sodium-glucose co transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for type 2 diabetes should also not follow a Keto diet. This medication increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition that increases acidity in the blood.