Does a Ketogenic Diet Extend Life Span?

More Research to Come

Unfortunately, testing the effects of diet on aging in humans is extremely difficult, due to the number of variables and the length of time required for such a study. There has still been substantial research on anti-aging and diet.^24,25,26 However, most of the research on ketogenic diets used mice or other rodents and not humans. While valid information can be gained in this way, there is always the risk that the results will not translate to humans.

The few human studies that have been conducted have favorable results. Take for example, a study published in 2007, which concluded that a ketogenic diet could help manage brain cancer.²⁷ The mechanisms at play may involve removal of carbohydrates from the diet, as the brain modifies its preferred source of fuel accordingly.^28,29,30

Further, while there are studies correlating a ketogenic diet with health gains, still little is truly known about the mechanisms behind the benefits of the dietary approach.^31,32

Conclusion – Will You Live Longer on a Ketogenic Diet?

Does the ketogenic diet extend lifespan?

It doesn’t seem to hurt your chances of living longer, and there are signs of positive effects by improving cellular and neuronal functioning.

In today’s world, most westerners are consuming higher carbohydrate diets than what’s been seen in our history. The effects of this drastic change in diet are just beginning to be understood. The research indicates that a high-carbohydrate diet can be damaging.³³ So, the idea of modifying one’s diet to eliminate carbohydrates is certainly a logical and tantalizing one.

The signs are promising, but ultimately more research needs to be conducted before we can arrive at a solid conclusion whether eliminating carbohydrates will add years to your life. Further, there are questions about the long-term sustainability and safety of a very low-carbohydrate diet.^34,35

A Paleo diet, which is low in sugar, rich with antioxidants, and nutrient dense, is a surefire way to improve your health and help slow down the aging process.^36,37 While Paleo diets generally are not considered ‘ketogenic’, a Paleo diet remains on the lower spectrum of carbohydrate intake among popular diets. While the science behind ketogenic diets is only in its infancy, the many positive effects of vegetables, high quality proteins, and healthy fats espoused by the Paleo diet are well documented.

References

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