Long-Term Keto Diet May Harm Metabolic Health Despite Weight Control

A new study from University of Utah Health suggests that while a ketogenic diet may help prevent weight gain, it could also trigger serious metabolic problems over time. Published in Science Advances, the research examined the long-term effects of keto in mice and found troubling trade-offs beneath the surface.

Mice fed a traditional ketogenic diet remained lean compared with those on a high-fat Western diet. However, the diet led to unhealthy fat accumulation in the liver, a hallmark of metabolic disease. Male mice were particularly affected, developing severe fatty liver and impaired liver function. Female mice showed resistance to this effect, a difference researchers plan to explore further.

The study also revealed disrupted blood sugar control. Although keto-fed mice initially showed low glucose and insulin levels, they experienced extreme and prolonged blood sugar spikes when carbohydrates were reintroduced. This was linked to reduced insulin release from pancreatic cells stressed by prolonged high-fat exposure.

While some effects are reversed after stopping the diet, the findings raise concerns about the long-term metabolic safety of keto and highlight the need for caution and medical guidance.

02-02-2026