As we age, our dietary needs may change, and we become more conscious of the foods we eat. With the high prevalence of chronic diseases in older adults, making informed dietary choices is essential in promoting good health and reducing the risk of disease.
One of the popular diets gaining attention lately is the ketogenic (keto) diet, which involves consuming low-carb, high-fat, and moderate-protein foods. The idea behind the keto diet is to get your body into a state of ketosis. That’s when your body doesn’t have enough carbs to burn for energy, so it burns fat instead.
But the question remains: Is the keto diet safe and healthy for older adults? The answer is that it depends on the individual looking to try out a keto lifestyle, as many factors can make or break the safety and effectiveness of a keto diet. Before switching to the keto diet, explore the science behind the diet, the potential benefits and risks, and whether it’s a practical change to take on.
Whitefish at the Lakes is a community that offers a wide variety of amenities and services to help support your loved ones’ health. With regularly visiting physicians and a well-rounded approach to wellness, we can assist with many dietary requirements and requests.
A Typical Day on the Keto Diet
Because the keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet, a typical day’s menu might look like the following:
Breakfast: You might start your day with scrambled eggs cooked in butter, with some avocado on the side. Throw in some full-fat cheese if you’d like!
Lunch: For lunch, you may have something like a salad with grilled chicken, a generous drizzle of olive oil, a handful of olives, and some feta cheese.
Dinner: Dinner could be a juicy steak served with a side of asparagus sautéed in butter.
Snacks: If you get hungry between meals, snacks like nuts or seeds, cheese, or avocado can be great choices.
Keto for People with Diabetes
Older adults are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with many older adults already living with the condition.
One of the main benefits of the keto diet is that it helps to control blood sugar levels by reducing the intake of carbohydrates that break down into glucose and cause a surge in blood sugar levels. By minimizing the intake of carbs, the body burns fat for fuel, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.
The keto diet can be a great option for aging adults looking to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Keto & Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a growing concern among older adults, with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity being the primary risk factors.
The keto diet can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by promoting weight loss, lowering blood pressure, and improving lipid profile. Additionally, the diet helps to reduce inflammation, a significant contributor to heart disease, by cutting out sugar and refined carbohydrates.
How Keto Can Affect Cognitive Function
Cognitive decline is a common concern among older adults, with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders.
The ketogenic diet has been shown to improve cognitive function in patients with these conditions, and there is evidence to suggest that it may delay or prevent their onset. This is because the diet provides an alternative fuel source for the brain in the form of ketones, which can improve brain function and reduce inflammation.
Potential Drawbacks of Keto
As beneficial as the keto diet may be, it can be challenging to follow, particularly for older adults. The diet involves a significant overhaul of one’s eating habits, which may be difficult to implement for older adults. Additionally, the diet’s restriction on carbohydrates can lead to a lack of variety in food choices, making it challenging to obtain all the necessary nutrients.
Proper Planning for the Keto Diet
For older adults who want to adopt the keto diet, it is essential to do it properly by seeking medical guidance and consulting with a registered dietitian.
The keto diet may have potential side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and constipation, and all these factors need to be considered before beginning the diet. Additionally, older adults may need to consult with their healthcare provider regarding any medication changes necessary due to the diet’s effects on blood sugar and lipid levels.
Implementing the Keto Diet for Seniors
The keto diet can be an effective tool for older adults looking to improve their health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases. However, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals and registered dietitians to ensure the diet is safe and appropriate for one’s specific circumstances.
As with any dietary change, it is essential to approach it with a balanced, informed perspective and to make sure that the benefits outweigh the potential risks. With proper planning and advice, older adults can reap the benefits of the keto diet and enjoy a healthy, fulfilling life. Whitefish at the Lakes is here to help your loved ones with the proper planning and nutritional support. Book a tour today to see how we can help.
