A recent study published in the journal Metabolites has compared the **ketogenic (keto)** and **Mediterranean diets** to assess their effects on metabolic health, particularly for those newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Conducted by researchers from Italy and Brazil, the study found that the keto diet resulted in better short-term improvements in **blood sugar control**, **gut microbiota balance**, **body mass index (BMI)**, and waist size when compared to the Mediterranean diet.
The study involved a small group of participants aged 45 to 65 years dealing with obesity and who were not yet on diabetes medication. Initially, participants were placed on an extremely low-calorie ketogenic diet, consuming less than 30 grams of carbohydrates daily. After two months, a transition to the Mediterranean diet was implemented to reduce any risks associated with prolonged keto diet use.
After six months, those on the keto diet exhibited significant improvements in crucial health markers such as **hemoglobin A1C levels** and an increase in beneficial gut bacteria compared to those following the Mediterranean diet. However, these benefits began to diminish after the six-month period, with both diets eventually providing similar health benefits by the end of the study.
Health experts caution that while the keto diet may offer short-term metabolic benefits, it can also present long-term risks, such as **nutrient deficiencies** and potential **liver** and **kidney issues**. On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet is considered a safer and more balanced option for managing type 2 diabetes and overall wellness. Its focus on balance assists in blood sugar control and improving insulin resistance without the possible negative effects associated with the keto approach.
For more details, you can read the full study on Medical News Today.
