New Study – Keto Diet Can Cause Flu-Like Symptoms

Following a high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet may lead to headache, fatigue, nausea, and other symptoms referred to as the “keto flu,” according to a new review in Frontiers in Nutrition. Researchers identified common symptoms via online searches and forums and tracked severity, duration, and potential remedies. Most online users reported moderate symptoms that also included aches, diarrhea, and intestinal pain that lasted up to four weeks. The authors note that while more research is required to determine the causes, nutrition imbalances and the associated bodily responses to ketogenic diets may contribute to the illness.

References

Bostock ECS, Kirkby KC, Taylor BV, Hawrelak JA. Consumer reports of “keto flu” associated with the ketogenic diet. Front Nutr. Published online March 13, 2020.