High-fat, low-carb ketogenic diets are controversial, but a new study in mice suggests they may help improve health in certain cases-especially when combined with exercise.
Researchers found that mice with high blood sugar returned to normal after an extreme keto diet. When these mice exercised, their aerobic capacity increased, and their muscles became more fatigue-resistant.
"After one week on the ketogenic diet, their blood sugar was completely normal," said physiologist Sarah Lessard from Virginia Tech Carilion.
The findings suggest the diet can reverse high blood sugar and exercise inefficiencies, though results are limited to mice and not yet proven in humans.
