Experts say to proceed with caution on keto diet

The ketogenic, or keto, diet is trending now, but experts are urging caution. The diet calls for consuming few to no carbs, and relies instead on high fat (upward of 70% of daily calories) and protein intake for weight loss and other cardiovascular benefits. But scientists say there isn’t enough evidence to support these claims. One review of studies they cite found that people on the keto diet, on average, lost less than a kilogram of weight compared to people on other diets. Another review also found limited benefit for reducing blood sugar levels. But given the litany of side effects that have been associated with this diet — including vitamin and mineral deficiencies and a chronic lack of dietary fiber — physicians and patients should follow the evidence and not the hype behind the diet, the experts write.