Is the Keto Diet Safe When You’re on a GLP-1?
Is the Keto Diet Safe When You’re on a GLP-1?
The recent rise of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) weight loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Rybelsus, has been a godsend for many people who have previously struggled to lose pounds. These medications can be incredibly effective at assisting with weight loss, but it’s essential to consider what to eat during treatment. One common diet that raises questions is the ketogenic, or keto, diet.
What Is the Keto Diet?
The basic concept behind the keto diet is to consume most of your daily calories from fat, a smaller amount from protein, and the least amount from carbohydrates. This extreme low-carb eating pattern puts your body into a fat-burning state called ketosis, which is believed to account for the rapid weight loss many people experience.
Relationship Between Keto and GLP-1
If you’ve been following a keto diet for weight loss, it’s natural to wonder: Does keto increase GLP-1? Or decrease it? Research studies suggest that short-term keto diets may lower GLP-1 secretion, while long-term keto diets might improve GLP-1 secretion levels. However, this requires further study.
Is It a Good Idea to Do Keto if You Take a GLP-1?
If you’ve been prescribed a GLP-1 drug, consult with your doctor, obesity medicine specialist, or registered dietitian about your diet. They can evaluate your unique situation and advise an eating plan that’s best for your nutritional and lifestyle needs. While a keto diet may increase weight loss during treatment, this may or may not be a desired effect – and it’s not a guarantee.
Should I Eat Low-Carb on a Semaglutide?
You can always experiment with a modified version of keto if you’re not interested in 100 percent adherence. A low-carb diet has been shown to be beneficial for weight loss and blood sugar control, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. So, if someone could not commit to full-on keto, it would still be useful to decrease unhealthy carbs (like highly processed carbs) and sugars.
The Wrap-Up
While a keto diet may increase weight loss during treatment, this may or may not be a desired effect – and it’s not a guarantee. Fortunately, when you’re taking a GLP-1 drug, there’s no single diet you’re mandated to follow. It’s up to you (and your doctor) to choose a diet that’s sustainable and enjoyable for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a keto diet can be a safe and effective choice for people who are taking GLP-1 drugs, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet. A low-carb diet may also be a viable option for those who are not committed to a full keto diet. Ultimately, the best diet is one that you can stick to in the long term.
FAQs
Q: Can I still eat keto if I’m taking a GLP-1 drug?
A: Yes, but consult with your doctor or healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe and effective for your unique situation.
Q: Will a keto diet increase my GLP-1 levels?
A: Research suggests that long-term keto diets might improve GLP-1 secretion levels, but this requires further study.
Q: Do I need to stop eating keto if I start taking a GLP-1 drug?
A: No, you can continue eating keto, but consult with your doctor or healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe and effective for your unique situation.
Q: Can I do a low-carb diet instead of a keto diet?
A: Yes, a low-carb diet can be a viable option for those who are not committed to a full keto diet.
Q: How do I choose the right diet for my weight loss goals?
A: Consult with your doctor or healthcare professional to choose a diet that’s sustainable and enjoyable for you.
Q: What are the risks of a keto diet?
A: A keto diet can cause mild symptoms like low energy or bad breath, as well as more serious outcomes like low blood pressure, kidney stones, constipation, nutrient deficiencies, and increased risk of heart disease.
