Does the keto diet accelerate organ aging in mice?
A recent study on mice suggests that ketogenic diets may lead to accelerated organ aging. Researchers from UTHealth San Antonio, TX, conducted the study to examine the effects of ketogenic diets, also known as “keto” diets, on the internal body organs of mice.
The study compared mice on a ketogenic diet to a control group and found that the mice on the keto diet experienced higher rates of aging in their body organs. The keto diet typically consists of high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate intake. The mice on the keto diet showed increased cellular aging in their heart and kidneys, leading to organ damage and cellular senescence.
The researchers also tested the effects of different types of fats on organ aging in mice. Mice fed with Crisco, which is high in unsaturated fats, showed similar signs of organ damage and cellular senescence as the mice on the keto diet. The study found that blocking certain proteins involved in the cellular senescence process can help mitigate the effects of the keto diet on organ aging.
Registered dietician Scott Keatley emphasized the importance of understanding the long-term effects of ketogenic diets on organ health and recommended careful consideration of diet duration and composition, especially for individuals with existing organ concerns or at risk for chronic diseases. Immunology and endocrinology specialist Steve Gendron highlighted the need for longitudinal trials in humans to fully understand the impact of the keto diet on organ health over time.
In conclusion, while the keto diet has proven benefits in managing epilepsy and promoting weight loss, the study suggests that it may have potential health risks, particularly in terms of organ aging. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of the keto diet on organ health in humans and to explore different variations of the diet for optimal health outcomes.