Heart Patients Warned: Keto, Fasting Diets Risky

Cardiologists are issuing a strong warning to heart patients regarding the unverified diet trends proliferating on social media. Experts from leading medical institutions in Lucknow, including KGMU, SGPGIMS, and RMLIMS, have observed a concerning trend where cardiac patients increasingly seek dietary advice from influencers and trainers rather than healthcare professionals. This self-directed approach to restrictive eating patterns, such as ketogenic diets and intermittent fasting, is deemed unsuitable and potentially risky for those recovering from heart conditions.

These diets, while promoted for weight loss, can negatively impact a patient's recovery. Doctors highlight that restrictive eating can reduce energy levels, impeding participation in essential exercise programs and cardiac rehabilitation. Factors like the severity of heart disease, diabetes, kidney function, and current medications must be considered. Unsupervised fasting and severe carbohydrate restriction can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Additionally, the unchecked use of online dietary supplements is flagged for potentially interfering with heart medications, blood pressure, and kidney function, underscoring the need for professional medical guidance for sustainable lifestyle changes.