Understanding the Relationship Between Keto Flu and Fever

Keto flu is a common experience among people who switch to a low-carb, high-fat diet. While some of the symptoms can be similar to those of the regular flu, such as fatigue and headache, it is not known to cause a fever. However, some people may experience a mild increase in body temperature as a result of the metabolic changes that occur when transitioning to a ketogenic diet. In this article, we will explore in detail whether keto flu can give you a fever or not.

What is keto flu and its symptoms?

The keto flu is a perplexing and bursty phenomenon that can catch even the most experienced keto dieters off guard. Its symptoms can vary widely from person to person, making it difficult to predict when and how it will strike. Common symptoms of keto flu include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, nausea, and brain fog. These symptoms can make it challenging to stay on track with your keto diet, but they are typically temporary and will subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. It’s important to stay well-hydrated, get enough electrolytes, and listen to your body during this time. Although it can be frustrating, the keto flu is a sign that your body is transitioning into a state of ketosis, which is a key goal of the keto diet.

SYMPTOM	DESCRIPTION	TREATMENT
Fever	If your temperature is above 101°F (38.3°C), it could be a sign of an infection and you should contact your doctor.	Your doctor may recommend acetaminophen or ibuprofen to lower your temperature. They may also prescribe antibiotics if there is an infection present.
Vomiting	If you are unable to keep anything down, including water, for more than 24 hours, it could lead to dehydration and require medical attention.	Your doctor may recommend intravenous fluids to rehydrate your body. They may also prescribe anti-nausea medication.
Severe Diarrhea	If you experience diarrhea for more than 3 days, or if you have blood in your stool, you should consult with your doctor.	Your doctor may recommend intravenous fluids to rehydrate your body. They may also prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause of your diarrhea.
Chest Pain	If you experience chest pain that is severe or lasts for more than a few minutes, seek medical attention immediately. Chest pain could be a sign of a heart attack or other serious condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or chest x-ray, to determine the cause of your chest pain.
Shortness of Breath	If you experience shortness of breath that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. Shortness of breath could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a chest x-ray or pulmonary function test, to determine the cause of your shortness of breath.
Confusion	If you experience confusion, disorientation, or trouble speaking, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to determine the cause of your confusion.
Muscle Weakness	If you experience severe muscle weakness or difficulty moving, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a muscle biopsy or electromyography (EMG), to determine the cause of your muscle weakness.
Seizures	If you experience a seizure, seek medical attention immediately. Seizures can be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an EEG or MRI, to determine the cause of your seizures. They may also prescribe medication to control your seizures.
Excessive Fatigue	If you experience excessive fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your fatigue. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Unusual Bleeding or Bruising	If you experience unusual bleeding or bruising, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to determine the underlying cause of your bleeding or bruising. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes	If you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to determine the underlying cause of the yellowing. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Swelling	If you experience swelling that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. Swelling could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to determine the cause of your swelling. They may also prescribe medication to reduce the swelling.
Chest Tightness	If you experience chest tightness that is severe or lasts for more than a few minutes, seek medical attention immediately. Chest tightness could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or chest x-ray, to determine the cause of your chest tightness.
Irregular Heartbeat	If you experience an irregular heartbeat that is sudden or severe, seek medical attention immediately. An irregular heartbeat could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, to determine the cause of your irregular heartbeat. They may also prescribe medication to regulate your heartbeat.
Worsening of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions	If you experience a worsening of pre-existing medical conditions, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign that your condition is not well-managed.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. They may also recommend changes to your treatment plan.

Can keto flu cause fever?

It’s not entirely clear whether keto flu can cause a fever. While some people report experiencing flu-like symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and headaches when starting a ketogenic diet, fever isn’t typically listed as a common symptom. However, some individuals may experience a mild fever as their body adjusts to the new diet. It’s also possible that a fever could be a sign of an underlying illness or infection, so it’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. The best course of action is to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian if you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms while on a ketogenic diet.

SYMPTOMS	FLU	COVID-19	COLD
Keto Flu	Regular Flu	Coronavirus	Common Cold
Fatigue	Fatigue	Fatigue	Fatigue
Headache	Headache	Headache	Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Cough	Cough	Dry Cough	Cough
Sore Throat	Sore Throat	Sore Throat	Sore Throat
Fever	Fever	Fever	Low-grade Fever
Shortness of Breath		Shortness of Breath
Loss of Smell or Taste		Loss of Smell or Taste
Muscle Aches	Muscle Aches	Muscle Aches	Muscle Aches
Chills	Chills	Chills
Body Aches			Body Aches
Runny or Stuffy Nose			Runny or Stuffy Nose

What are the causes of keto flu?

Keto flu is a common side effect of the ketogenic diet. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including fatigue, headache, irritability, and nausea. The causes of keto flu can vary, but most experts believe it is a result of the body adjusting to the new diet. When you switch to a low-carb, high-fat diet, your body starts to burn fat for energy instead of glucose. This can cause a range of symptoms as your body adjusts. Some experts also believe that keto flu is caused by the release of toxins from fat stores in the body. As your body burns fat for energy, it releases these toxins, which can cause a range of symptoms. However, the exact causes of keto flu are still not fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms.

How long does keto flu last?

Keto flu is something that can catch you off guard and can last for a short or extended period. It is hard to predict how long it will last since it varies from person to person. Some may experience keto flu symptoms for a few days or up to a week, while others may have symptoms that last for several weeks. The duration of keto flu depends on several factors, including the severity of the symptoms, the individual’s body composition, and how strictly they are following the ketogenic diet. While it may be frustrating to deal with keto flu symptoms, it is essential to remember that they are temporary and will eventually pass. In the meantime, it is crucial to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and follow a healthy diet to help alleviate the symptoms of keto flu.

How can you prevent keto flu?

Keto flu is an unpleasant condition that many people experience when starting a ketogenic diet. The symptoms of keto flu can be quite severe and may include nausea, headache, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent or alleviate these symptoms. One of the best ways to prevent keto flu is to make sure you are getting enough electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals are essential for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body and can help to prevent dehydration, which can worsen keto flu symptoms. Another way to prevent keto flu is to gradually transition to a ketogenic diet, rather than making sudden and drastic changes to your diet. This allows your body to adapt slowly to the new way of eating, minimizing the likelihood of experiencing keto flu. Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Finally, getting enough rest and sleep can also help to prevent keto flu, as fatigue and exhaustion can worsen the symptoms of this condition. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent or reduce the severity of keto flu and make the transition to a ketogenic diet as smooth and comfortable as possible.

METHOD	EFFECTIVENESS	POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS	RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Increasing Electrolyte Intake	Effective	None	At least 5000 mg of sodium, 1000 mg of potassium, and 300 mg of magnesium per day
Staying Hydrated	Effective	None	Drink at least 8 cups of water per day
Gradually Reducing Carb Intake	Effective	Mild headache, fatigue, and muscle weakness	Reduce carb intake by 20-30 grams per day until in ketosis
Taking Magnesium Supplements	Effective	Diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps	400-600 mg per day
Taking Potassium Supplements	Effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	1000-2000 mg per day
Taking Calcium Supplements	Not very effective	Constipation, bloating, and gas	1000-1500 mg per day
Taking Sodium Supplements	Not very effective	None	None
Taking Vitamin D Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite	600-800 IU per day
Taking B-complex Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	One B-complex supplement per day
Taking Zinc Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	11 mg per day for men, 8 mg per day for women
Taking Iron Supplements	Not very effective	Constipation, nausea, and stomach cramps	8-18 mg per day for women, 8 mg per day for men
Taking Chromium Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	At least 200 mcg per day
Taking MCT Oil	Not very effective	Diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps	1-2 tablespoons per day
Taking L-carnitine Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	500-2000 mg per day
Taking Creatine Supplements	Not very effective	Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea	3-5 grams per day

What are the best foods to eat during keto flu?

The keto flu can be a challenging experience for anyone who is transitioning into a ketogenic diet. Symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, irritability and nausea can make it difficult to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. However, there are many foods that can help you combat these symptoms and keep you on track.

Eggs are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, and they can be prepared in many different ways to keep your meals interesting. Avocados are another great option, as they are high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Other good options include leafy greens, nuts and seeds, coconut oil, and bone broth. These foods are all rich in nutrients and can help you maintain a healthy immune system, which is especially important during the keto flu. By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can help alleviate symptoms and stay on track with your goals.

What are the worst foods to eat during keto flu?

When it comes to keto flu, it’s already difficult enough to deal with the symptoms, and what’s worse is some foods can make it even worse. Some of the worst foods to eat during keto flu include high-carb vegetables like potatoes and corn, sugary fruits like bananas and grapes, and processed foods like chips and crackers. These types of foods can hinder your body’s ability to enter ketosis by spiking your blood sugar levels, which can make your keto flu symptoms last even longer. It’s important to stick to low-carb, high-fat foods like avocados, nuts, and fatty meats during this time to help your body adjust to the new way of eating. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body’s signals as you navigate through keto flu – it will eventually pass and your body will thank you for it!

FOOD	CARB CONTENT (PER 100G)	EXPLANATION
Bread	49g	Bread is high in carbs, which can inhibit ketosis and worsen symptoms of keto flu.
Pasta	25g	Pasta is also high in carbs and can interfere with ketosis.
Rice	28g	Rice is a high-carb food and should be avoided during the keto flu.
Potatoes	17g	Potatoes are a starchy vegetable and contain a significant amount of carbs.
Bananas	23g	Bananas are a high-carb fruit and should be avoided during the keto flu.
Grapes	16g	Grapes are also a high-carb fruit that can interfere with ketosis.
Mangoes	15g	Mangoes are a high-carb fruit that should be avoided during the keto flu.
Processed Meats	0g	Processed meats can contain hidden carbs and additives that can worsen symptoms of keto flu.
Sugary Drinks	10-12g	Sugary drinks are high in carbs and can prevent ketosis.
Beer	3-4g	Beer contains carbs and can inhibit ketosis.

What are some natural remedies for keto flu?

Keto flu is a common side effect of the ketogenic diet. Some natural remedies to alleviate the symptoms of keto flu include increasing electrolyte intake, drinking bone broth, taking magnesium supplements, and consuming foods that are high in potassium such as avocados and leafy greens. Another effective remedy is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, getting enough sleep and reducing stress levels through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can also help to reduce the severity of keto flu symptoms. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or supplement regimen, especially if you are experiencing severe symptoms or have underlying health conditions.

REMEDY	EFFECTIVENESS	DOSAGE	RECOMMENDEDUSE	SIDEEFFECTS
Bone broth	Very effective	2-3 cups per day	As needed during transition to ketosis	None reported
Electrolyte supplements	Very effective	1-2 servings per day	As needed during transition to ketosis	Possible digestive discomfort
MCT oil	Somewhat effective	1-2 tablespoons per day	As needed during transition to ketosis	Possible digestive discomfort
Coconut water	Not very effective	1-2 servings per day	As needed during transition to ketosis	High in sugar, may disrupt ketosis
Salt	Very effective	1-2 teaspoons per day	As needed during transition to ketosis	Possible increase in blood pressure

Can keto flu be mistaken for an actual flu?

The symptoms of keto flu can certainly be mistaken for an actual flu, and this confusion can be exacerbated by the fact that many people who experience keto flu are often on the ketogenic diet for weight loss, which can compromise their immune system. While keto flu symptoms may seem like those of the flu, it’s important to note that they are not the same thing. Keto flu is caused by the body’s transition from using glucose for energy to using ketones, which can cause symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms may be similar to those of the flu, but they are not caused by a virus. In some cases, people who experience keto flu may also have a low-grade fever, but this is not common. If you’re not sure whether you have keto flu or the actual flu, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

When should you seek medical attention for keto flu?

Symptoms of keto flu can be uncomfortable but can usually be managed with self-care measures. However, if you experience severe symptoms or have concerns about your health, it is advisable to seek medical attention. If you have keto flu and develop a fever, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Other warning signs include severe vomiting or diarrhea, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion or disorientation, or a loss of consciousness. These symptoms may indicate a more severe electrolyte imbalance or dehydration, which can be extremely dangerous. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

SYMPTOM	DESCRIPTION	TREATMENT
Fever	If your temperature is above 101°F (38.3°C), it could be a sign of an infection and you should contact your doctor.	Your doctor may recommend acetaminophen or ibuprofen to lower your temperature. They may also prescribe antibiotics if there is an infection present.
Vomiting	If you are unable to keep anything down, including water, for more than 24 hours, it could lead to dehydration and require medical attention.	Your doctor may recommend intravenous fluids to rehydrate your body. They may also prescribe anti-nausea medication.
Severe Diarrhea	If you experience diarrhea for more than 3 days, or if you have blood in your stool, you should consult with your doctor.	Your doctor may recommend intravenous fluids to rehydrate your body. They may also prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause of your diarrhea.
Chest Pain	If you experience chest pain that is severe or lasts for more than a few minutes, seek medical attention immediately. Chest pain could be a sign of a heart attack or other serious condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or chest x-ray, to determine the cause of your chest pain.
Shortness of Breath	If you experience shortness of breath that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. Shortness of breath could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a chest x-ray or pulmonary function test, to determine the cause of your shortness of breath.
Confusion	If you experience confusion, disorientation, or trouble speaking, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to determine the cause of your confusion.
Muscle Weakness	If you experience severe muscle weakness or difficulty moving, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as a muscle biopsy or electromyography (EMG), to determine the cause of your muscle weakness.
Seizures	If you experience a seizure, seek medical attention immediately. Seizures can be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an EEG or MRI, to determine the cause of your seizures. They may also prescribe medication to control your seizures.
Excessive Fatigue	If you experience excessive fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your fatigue. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Unusual Bleeding or Bruising	If you experience unusual bleeding or bruising, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to determine the underlying cause of your bleeding or bruising. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes	If you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to determine the underlying cause of the yellowing. They may also recommend changes to your diet or activity level.
Swelling	If you experience swelling that is sudden, severe, or accompanied by shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. Swelling could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to determine the cause of your swelling. They may also prescribe medication to reduce the swelling.
Chest Tightness	If you experience chest tightness that is severe or lasts for more than a few minutes, seek medical attention immediately. Chest tightness could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or chest x-ray, to determine the cause of your chest tightness.
Irregular Heartbeat	If you experience an irregular heartbeat that is sudden or severe, seek medical attention immediately. An irregular heartbeat could be a sign of a serious medical condition.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, to determine the cause of your irregular heartbeat. They may also prescribe medication to regulate your heartbeat.
Worsening of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions	If you experience a worsening of pre-existing medical conditions, consult with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign that your condition is not well-managed.	Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. They may also recommend changes to your treatment plan.

What is keto flu?

Keto flu is a set of symptoms that some people experience when they first start a ketogenic diet. It can include headache, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness, among other things.

Can keto flu give you a fever?

It is possible for keto flu to cause a low-grade fever, but it is not a common symptom. If you are experiencing a fever higher than 101°F, it is important to seek medical attention.

How long does keto flu last?

The duration of keto flu varies from person to person, but it typically lasts for a few days to a week. After the initial period, most people find that their symptoms improve significantly.

What can I do to relieve keto flu symptoms?

Drinking plenty of water, getting adequate electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and magnesium), and eating enough healthy fats can help alleviate symptoms. It is also important to give your body time to adjust to the new diet, and to be patient with the process.

Can I prevent keto flu?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent keto flu, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Gradually reducing your carbohydrate intake before starting a ketogenic diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough electrolytes can all help reduce the severity of symptoms.

In conclusion, while the keto flu can cause symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea, it typically does not cause a fever. If you are experiencing a fever while on the ketogenic diet, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.