Does a Low-Carb Diet Increase Death Risk?

A recent survey concludes that nearly 40% of Americans are obese. Sedentary lifestyle practices and unhealthy eating are the major reasons for this whopping obesity rate. This has made several people to switch to low-carb diets to shed those extra pounds. While this may sound effective and the best meal plan to make your life better, research suggests otherwise. 

Why is Low-Carb Diet Dangerous?

Carbohydrates are the major source of energy for your body to function. The carbs that you consume are converted to glycogen which in turn produces glucose for you to stay active throughout the day. In the absence of enough glucose, you tend to become more tired, hungry, and restless. It can also lead to less oxygen supply in your brain. 

Moreover, when a low-carb, high-fat diet such as the Keto diet is followed, there are chances for your body to store more fat than required. Along with nutrient deficiencies, this type of diet can also lead to heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases. More the consumption of saturated fats, higher is the risk of blood cholesterol levels. 

Though cutting down on carbs may help in the short term, the below study proves that low-carb intake can lead to premature mortality and death due to chronic illnesses. 

Study Suggests Low Carb Diet Increases Death Risk

The paper submitted by Prof. Maciej Banach at the European Society of Cardiology Congress claims that low-carb diets increase the risk of death from coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and cancer. 

In his study that involved 24, 825 participants categorized as obese and non-obese, Banach found that nearly 32% of them who took the least carbs were at an increased risk of death from heart diseases, stroke, or cancer. 

He concluded that though low-carb diets can help in the short term in controlling high blood pressure and maintain good glucose levels, in the long run, it can cause an increased risk of death from the above-mentioned diseases. 

This study also proves that a balanced diet is what we need to consume for a healthy living. Consumption of too little nutrients to lose weight could end up being fatal.