The Ketogenic Diet has grown in popularity over the past few years, likely because of the dramatic results this diet promises to bring. Followers of this lifestyle restrict their diet to about 75% fat, 20% protein and 5% carbohydrates compared to a standard diet of approximately 50% carbohydrates, 25% protein, and 25% fat. The goal of following this diet is to send the body into a state of ketosis, which occurs when the body breaks down its fat for energy as opposed to glucose from carbohydrates. There are both positives and negatives in following this diet. So while it is not an end all be all solution to maintaining your heart health, aspects of it may be useful. For comprehensive treatment with your heart disease, visit the Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island for a holistic cardiologist in Nassau County. 

 

Benefits of the Keto Diet: 

  • Improve HDL cholesterol levels – HDL cholesterol is considered “good cholesterol” because it stabilizes harmful cholesterol in your body, returning it to the liver. It also reduces your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes or certain types of cancers. 
  • Lower LDL cholesterol levels – LDL cholesterol (or “bad cholesterol) levels typically decrease when following a Keto diet as a result of the increase in regulatory HDL cholesterol.
  • Quick weight-loss – Because of the effect of Ketosis on fat cells, many people find they lose weight quickly when eating Keto. Dropping weight will lower your cholesterol and blood pressure – two large components of heart disease. 

 

Cons of the Keto Diet:

  • Weight loss may come but not stay – The Ketogenic Diet is restrictive and unnatural for many people who may find it difficult to stick with this dietary change. Although it certainly yields weight loss results, once the diet is stopped, the pounds will likely return. 
  • High fat isn’t necessarily good – While there are some healthy fats, following a Keto diet does not specify which fats you should be consuming. Choosing saturated fats, especially in such high content, will have a largely adverse effect on your heart and may even clog your arteries. 

 

The Best Diet for Your Heart:

Ultimately, eating keto is not the key to heart health. The ultimate key to good heart health is choosing to eat healthily. A Keto Diet does not have rigid guidelines, so while some people following it may be eating healthy, others may not be making that choice. Choosing to incorporate fiber-rich, real food carbs into your diet is considered a more sustainable method of keeping your heart healthy. Fortunately, you do not have to rely solely on the internet or word of mouth to help improve your nutrition. With the guidance of a holistic cardiologist in Nassau County, you can formulate the best diet for your heart health. Some of the best foods for maximizing your heart health that you may want to start eating include:

  • Leafy green vegetables. 
  • Berries.
  • Whole grains.
  • Dark chocolate.
  • Garlic. 
  • Fatty fish/fish oil.
  • Avocado. 
  • Beans.
  • Walnuts and almonds. 
  • Green tea. 
  • Tomatoes.  

 

Contact a Holistic Cardiologist in Nassau County for Treatment:

If you are looking to put your heart disease to rest naturally, visit the Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island and consult with a holistic cardiologist in Nassau County! Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle. Our comprehensive diagnostic process combines genetic testing, active cardiac testing, metabolic and nutritional assessment, advanced inflammatory markers, and testing for exposure to toxins to make your treatment as personalized as possible. Visit our website to learn more about holistic heart health and book your first appointment.