Can the KETO Diet Fix Your IBS?
Can the KETO Diet Fix Your IBS?
By Claire Allen, RD
The ketogenic diet, commonly referred to as “keto,” was one of the top googled diets for weight loss
in 2019. Historically, this diet has been used as a medical treatment for neurological conditions,
particularly to treat epilepsy. A true clinical ketogenic diet is defined as being extremely high in fat,
typically 80-90% of total calories, limited protein, and extremely low carbohydrates (20-40 grams per
day, or the equivalent of a medium to very large apple). The goal of this diet is to severely limit
carbohydrate intake which reduces glucose stores in the body. When this occurs, ketone bodies are
produced for energy for the brain and central nervous system, putting the body in a state of ketosis,
and fat is burned for fuel.
There are many debated pros and cons for keto diet and weight loss, but how does it relate to
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Turns out, the potential negative side effects look to outweigh the
benefits. If followed correctly, the keto diet is extremely high in fat. For the IBS sufferer, this can
result in a delay in gastric emptying (the time it takes for digested food to move from the stomach to
the small intestine) which can cause an extreme sensation of fullness, abdominal pain and
distention. A very high fat meal may also stimulate contractions in the large intestine, resulting in an
urgent bowel movement. On the flip side, the keto diet is extremely low in carbohydrates, which not
only limits refined sugars but also whole grains, fruits, legumes and starchy vegetables. While
elimination of these highly fermentable foods may initially result in a reduction in gas and bloat, the
concern is that this eating pattern greatly restricts many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Further,
avoidance of these healthy carbohydrates greatly reduces fiber intake, which is instrumental in blood
sugar and bowel movement regulation and diversity of the gut microbiota. Bottom line, the keto diet
is not recommended as the first line of nutrition therapy for the IBS suffer. A better treatment strategy
would be to follow the evidenced-based low FODMAP (Fermentable, Oligo-, Di and Mono-
saccharide and polyols) elimination diet, under the guidance of a trained registered dietitian.
At Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health, our dietitian, Claire Allen, will help you identify which
carbohydrates are problematic for you, while optimizing overall nutrition and reducing the risk of
additional health challenges. Call or schedule an appointment today at 224-407-4400
or www.compgihealth.com. #irritablebowelsyndrome #IBS #KETO