We love keto food, but we want to be honest about something first: a very low-carb diet is not appropriate for everyone, and the internet often skips this part. Please read this lesson before you start.
Talk to a healthcare professional first if you…
- are pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing;
- have type 1 diabetes, or take insulin, sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors or other medication for blood sugar. Very low-carb eating can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar or, with some drugs, a serious condition called ketoacidosis;
- have kidney disease, liver disease or a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder problems;
- take medication for high blood pressure, since needs can change quickly when you cut carbs;
- have a history of an eating disorder or disordered eating;
- have a rare metabolic or fat-processing disorder;
- are under 18, or are an older adult with a fragile appetite.
Why the medication point matters
When you stop eating carbs, your blood sugar and blood pressure can drop. If you keep taking the same dose of certain medicines, that can cause problems. That is why a doctor should adjust your medication before you change your diet, not after.
What we mean by “safe”
There is research on low-carb diets, but long-term evidence is still limited and individual responses vary. Nothing on this site is medical advice. We share recipes and general information, and we encourage you to check in with a doctor or registered dietitian, especially if any of the above applies to you.
Stop and get care if…
You experience severe dizziness or fainting, a racing or irregular heartbeat, persistent vomiting, confusion, extreme thirst, or any symptom that worries you.
Take the quiz
Our “Is keto right for me?” quiz includes a private safety screen. It is not a diagnosis, but it can point you toward a conversation with your doctor.
Read our full health disclaimer.