The effects of nutritional ketosis induced by Bigu-herbs regimen and ketogenic diet on diseases and aging

• Main Authors: Yi-Dan Lu, Xiao-Gu Liu, Song Zheng
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hong Kong Gold Orchid Science and Technology Co., Limited 2020-09-01
• Series: Traditional Medicine Research
• Subjects: grain avoidance
• Online Access: https://www.tmrjournals.com/plus/view.php?aid=1492

The Bigu-herbs regimen, a Taoism (Taoism is an ancient Chinese Taoist philosophy system) special health-preserving technique to achieve longevity through strict abstinence from food, limits the intake of grains and uses herbs to replace normal diet to gain energy. Practicing Bigu-herbs regimen for several weeks to several years can make one lose weight, prevent diseases, and prolong life. The modern ketogenic diet (KD) mainly limits carbohydrate intake and increase fat intake. The low-carbohydrate, high-fat, and adequate protein diet is well known for its antiepileptic and neurotrophic effects. Limiting the intake of carbohydrate results in energy metabolism reprogramming to mobilize the steatolysis, energize and promote ketone bodies (KBs) production, achieving a state of nutritional ketosis (NK). The researchers summarized how ketone bodies or NK affects diseases and the aging process, as well as the side effects of KD. NK has a favorable effect on caloric intake, lipid parameters, glycemic index, and insulin sensitivity; moreover, it can be used as a treatment option for diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic disorders. NK is recognized as being neuroprotective and is good for epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and emotional disturbance. Targeting the metabolic differences between tumor and normal cells, NK limits the use of glucose and impairs energy metabolism in cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and rendering them susceptible to clinical treatments. NK also affects inflammation and the release of cytokines, regulate gut flora, extend longevity and health span, and preserve physiologic functions. The side effects of KDs are controllable under the guidance of a specially trained dietitian and medical team.