5 Types of People Who Should Avoid the Keto Diet

The keto diet has gained massive popularity in recent years, touted as an effective way to lose weight, improve focus, and boost energy levels. However, it’s not for everyone. In fact, there are certain groups of people who should avoid the keto diet altogether. In this article, we’ll explore who should not go on a keto diet and why.

Individuals with liver or pancreatic disease

Individuals with liver or pancreatic disease should consult a doctor before starting a keto diet. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that can put stress on the liver and pancreas. In individuals with liver or pancreatic disease, this stress can be harmful and exacerbate their condition. Additionally, the high-fat content of the keto diet can lead to the formation of gallstones, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with liver or pancreatic disease. Therefore, it is important for individuals with these conditions to speak with a doctor before starting a keto diet to ensure that it is safe for them to do so.

FOOD	PORTION SIZE	POTASSIUM (MG)	BENEFITS FOR LOW BLOOD PRESSURE
Avocado	1 whole	975	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and unsaturated fats.
Spinach	1 cup	838	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and nitrates.
Salmon	3 ounces	534	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Mushrooms	1 cup	428	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and beta-glucans.
Zucchini	1 medium	512	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and fiber.
Brussels sprouts	1 cup	342	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and antioxidants.
Beef	3 ounces	237	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and iron.
Chicken	3 ounces	218	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and low levels of sodium.
Pork	3 ounces	382	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and low levels of sodium.
Coconut water	1 cup	600	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and electrolytes.
Pumpkin seeds	1 ounce	261	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and magnesium.
Yogurt	1 cup	531	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and probiotics.
Sardines	3 ounces	365	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Tomato sauce	1/2 cup	405	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and lycopene.
Dark chocolate	1 ounce	165	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and flavonoids.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are delicate periods in a woman’s life, and it is important to be cautious about any dietary changes during this time. While the keto diet can be beneficial for weight loss and reducing inflammation, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is because the diet restricts carbohydrates, which are essential for fetal and infant growth and development. Additionally, the high fat intake can increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as gallbladder disease and pancreatitis. It is important for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consult with their healthcare provider before making any significant changes to their diet.

Individuals with a history of disordered eating

Individuals with a history of disordered eating should be cautious about starting a keto diet. This kind of diet may trigger old habits and behaviors related to food restriction and obsession with weight loss. The strict rules of the keto diet may also cause feelings of guilt and shame if the individual fails to achieve the desired results. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before starting any new diet, especially if you have a history of disordered eating. They can help you develop a safe and balanced approach to nutrition that supports your physical and mental health.

Athletes engaging in intense physical training

Athletes who engage in intense physical training require a diet that provides them with optimal nutrition for energy, endurance, and muscle recovery. However, it’s important to remember that not all diets work for everyone, and some athletes may not benefit from a strict ketogenic diet. Those who should not go on a keto diet include athletes who require more carbohydrates for their specific sport or those who have difficulty maintaining weight on a low-carb diet. Instead, they may benefit from a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It’s important for athletes to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian to determine the best diet for their individual needs and goals.

Individuals with a history of kidney disease

Individuals with a history of kidney disease should be cautious when considering a keto diet. The keto diet involves a high intake of protein, which can put additional strain on the kidneys. If you have a history of kidney disease, your kidneys may already be compromised and unable to handle the extra load. This can lead to further kidney damage and potentially even kidney failure. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting a keto diet if you have a history of kidney disease. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if a keto diet is safe for you and can recommend alternative dietary options that may be better suited to your needs.

TYPE OF FOOD	RECOMMENDED	RESTRICTED
Protein	Low-fat protein such as fish, poultry, and lean meat	High protein diet like beef, pork, and lamb
Fat	Healthy sources of fat like avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil	Saturated and Trans fats like butter, cream, and margarine
Carbohydrates	Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables	Refined carbohydrates like white bread, cakes, and pastries
Fluids	Water and clear beverages	Drinks with high sugar content like soda and fruit juice

Children and teenagers

Children and teenagers can benefit greatly from healthy eating habits, but it’s important to approach any diet with caution. For example, a keto diet may not be appropriate for children and teenagers, as it may interfere with their growth and development. Additionally, some studies have suggested that low-carb diets can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems, which could be especially concerning for young people. As always, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or making significant changes to your eating habits.

Individuals with a history of gallbladder disease

The keto diet has become an increasingly popular method for weight loss and improved health. However, while it can be effective for many people, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Individuals with a history of gallbladder disease, for example, should be cautious about starting a keto diet. This is because the diet is high in fat and can put additional strain on the gallbladder, which is responsible for storing and releasing bile to aid in the digestion of fats. For individuals who have had their gallbladder removed, the keto diet may also be problematic as the body may struggle to digest the high amounts of fat.

It’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new diet, especially if you have a history of gallbladder disease or other health conditions.

FOODS TO AVOID	FOODS TO INCLUDE	PROTEIN	CARBOHYDRATES
Fried foods	Fruits and vegetables	Lean meats	Whole grains
High-fat dairy products	Low-fat or non-fat dairy products	Fish and poultry	Beans and legumes
Processed meats	Nuts and seeds	Eggs	Quinoa and brown rice
High-fat snacks and desserts	Low-fat snacks and desserts	Tofu and tempeh	Sweet potatoes and yams
Alcohol	Water and herbal tea	Protein shakes and smoothies	Steel-cut oats and barley
Saturated and trans fats	Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats	Low-fat cheese	Fresh fruit and berries
Spicy or greasy foods	Low-fat soups and broths	Lean cuts of red meat	Whole-wheat pasta and bread
Citrus fruits and juices	Non-citrus fruits	Roasted or baked chicken	Couscous and bulgur
Chocolate and caffeine	Herbs and spices	Greek yogurt	Millet and amaranth
Processed and packaged foods	Fresh and whole foods	Turkey and pork	Barley and wild rice
High-fat condiments	Low-fat condiments	Grilled or baked fish	Buckwheat and spelt
High-sugar foods and drinks	Low-sugar options	Plant-based protein sources	Soba noodles and basmati rice
Processed and cured meats	Fresh meats	Low-fat deli meats	Quinoa and farro
Butter and cream	Olive oil and avocado	Low-fat milk or soy milk	Popcorn and oatmeal
Fast food and takeout	Home-cooked meals	Hummus and other bean dips	Bulgur and brown rice

Individuals with thyroid or adrenal gland issues

Individuals with thyroid or adrenal gland issues should be cautious about starting a keto diet. The keto diet can cause changes in hormones, which may worsen the symptoms of thyroid or adrenal gland issues. In particular, the keto diet is low in carbohydrates, which can be problematic for individuals with thyroid issues, as they require a healthy balance of carbohydrates and protein to maintain optimal thyroid function. Additionally, the high fat intake of the keto diet can also put stress on the adrenal glands, which may lead to adrenal fatigue. Therefore, if you have thyroid or adrenal gland issues, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a keto diet to ensure that it is safe for you and to make any necessary adjustments to your diet to avoid any potential complications.

FOOD GROUP	FOODS TO AVOID	WHY TO AVOID
	Processed Meats	Processed meats are often high in sodium, additives, and preservatives that can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Soy	Soy contains phytoestrogens that can disrupt thyroid function and potentially cause adrenal gland issues.
	Cruciferous Vegetables	Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale contain goitrogens that can interfere with thyroid function when consumed in large amounts.
	Gluten	Gluten can cause inflammation in individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Dairy	Dairy can be difficult to digest for some individuals, leading to inflammation and potentially negative impacts on thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	High-Carb Fruits	Fruits that are high in carbs, such as bananas, mangoes, and grapes, can raise blood sugar levels and potentially impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Grains	Grains are often high in carbs and gluten, which can lead to inflammation and potentially negative impacts on thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Legumes	Legumes like beans and lentils can be high in carbs and can cause digestive issues in some individuals, potentially leading to negative impacts on thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Alcohol	Alcohol can be hard on the liver, which can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Processed Oils	Processed oils like vegetable oil and canola oil can be high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can lead to inflammation and potentially negative impacts on thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Artificial Sweeteners	Artificial sweeteners can potentially disrupt gut bacteria, which can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Caffeine	Caffeine can potentially disrupt cortisol levels, which can negatively impact adrenal gland function.
	Processed Foods	Processed foods are often high in sodium, additives, and preservatives that can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	Low-Calorie Sweeteners	Low-calorie sweeteners can potentially disrupt gut bacteria, which can negatively impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.
	High-Carb Vegetables	Vegetables that are high in carbs, such as potatoes and corn, can raise blood sugar levels and potentially impact thyroid and adrenal gland function.

Individuals with a history of heart disease

Individuals with a history of heart disease should exercise caution before starting a ketogenic diet. While research has shown that low-carb diets can improve heart health markers such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, it is important for people with a history of heart disease to consult with their doctor before starting a keto diet.

Some studies have found that the high fat intake associated with the keto diet can increase levels of LDL cholesterol, which is considered a risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, the keto diet can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people with a history of heart disease.

It is important for individuals with heart disease to work with a healthcare professional to determine if a keto diet is right for them.

FOODS TO AVOID	FOODS TO INCLUDE
Processed meats	Fish, poultry, nuts, and seeds
Sugary foods and beverages	Low-carb vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli, etc.)
Grains and starches	Healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, coconut oil, etc.)
High-carb fruits	Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, etc.)
Processed vegetable oils	Whole, unprocessed foods
Alcohol	Water, unsweetened tea, and coffee
High-carb snacks (chips, crackers, etc.)	Healthy snacks (nuts, seeds, cheese, etc.)
Sauces and dressings with added sugar	Homemade sauces and dressings with healthy fats
Artificial sweeteners	Natural sweeteners (stevia, erythritol, etc.)
High-carb condiments (ketchup, BBQ sauce, etc.)	Low-carb condiments (mustard, hot sauce, etc.)
Margarine	Butter, ghee, and other healthy fats
Processed cheese	Real, whole cheeses
Bread and baked goods	Low-carb bread and baked goods made with almond or coconut flour
High-carb vegetables (potatoes, corn, etc.)	Low-carb vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, cauliflower, etc.)
High-carb snacks (candy, cookies, etc.)	High-quality dark chocolate (in moderation)

Individuals with a history of low blood pressure

If you have a history of low blood pressure, you may want to think twice before jumping on the keto diet bandwagon. While the diet can be effective for weight loss and improving certain health markers, it can also lead to a drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those who are already prone to low blood pressure. This is because the keto diet tends to be low in carbohydrates, which are typically the body’s main source of fuel. When the body is in a state of ketosis, it begins to burn fat for fuel instead, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. While this may not be a problem for everyone, it can be a serious concern for those with a history of low blood pressure. If you’re considering the keto diet and have a history of low blood pressure, it’s important to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

FOOD	PORTION SIZE	POTASSIUM (MG)	BENEFITS FOR LOW BLOOD PRESSURE
Avocado	1 whole	975	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and unsaturated fats.
Spinach	1 cup	838	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and nitrates.
Salmon	3 ounces	534	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Mushrooms	1 cup	428	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and beta-glucans.
Zucchini	1 medium	512	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and fiber.
Brussels sprouts	1 cup	342	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and antioxidants.
Beef	3 ounces	237	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and iron.
Chicken	3 ounces	218	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and low levels of sodium.
Pork	3 ounces	382	May help lower blood pressure due to high levels of protein and low levels of sodium.
Coconut water	1 cup	600	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and electrolytes.
Pumpkin seeds	1 ounce	261	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and magnesium.
Yogurt	1 cup	531	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and probiotics.
Sardines	3 ounces	365	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Tomato sauce	1/2 cup	405	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and lycopene.
Dark chocolate	1 ounce	165	May help raise blood pressure due to high levels of potassium and flavonoids.

Who should not go on a keto diet?

People who have liver or pancreatic conditions, or have had their gallbladder removed, should not go on a keto diet. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children under 18 should also avoid this diet. Additionally, people with a history of eating disorders should not go on a keto diet without consulting a doctor first.

What are the risks of a keto diet?

Some risks of a keto diet include dehydration, constipation, nutrient deficiencies, and an increased risk of heart disease. People on a keto diet may also experience the 'keto flu', which includes symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

Can a keto diet be harmful?

Yes, a keto diet can be harmful if not done properly or if you have certain health conditions. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting a keto diet, especially if you have a history of kidney or liver problems.

Are there any alternatives to a keto diet?

Yes, there are many alternatives to a keto diet. Some popular diets include the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet, and the Flexitarian diet. It is important to find a diet that works for you and fits your lifestyle and health needs.

In conclusion, while the keto diet can be an effective weight loss tool and has numerous health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. People with a history of eating disorders, pancreatitis, liver failure, or undergoing certain medications should avoid the keto diet. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not follow the keto diet as it can affect the baby’s development. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or weight loss plan.