319: The ultimate keto podcast | Dom D'Agostino, Ph.D.

Plant-Based Keto

Dom D'Agostino, a leading expert on the ketogenic diet, shares insights on adopting a plant-based keto lifestyle. He explains that a plant-centric ketogenic diet can be beneficial, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment, as it combines the benefits of both dietary approaches 1. While it can be challenging to maintain ketosis on a vegan diet, incorporating foods like nuts, avocados, and olive oil can help 1. D'Agostino also emphasizes the importance of metabolic flexibility, suggesting that women, particularly those with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, may benefit from a low-carb diet 2.

A plant centric ketogenic diet does not have to be difficult if you're a vegetarian, because of course, eggs and dairy fat and things like that can make up the fat, but you also have nuts, avocado, extra virgin olive oil.

--- Dom D'Agostino

He recommends focusing on whole foods and being mindful of carb intake to achieve the desired health benefits.

   

Protein & Fat Sources

Dom D'Agostino discusses the importance of selecting appropriate protein and fat sources for a plant-based ketogenic diet. He notes that while plants are not his primary protein source, legumes and nuts can be valuable additions 3. Combining different plant-based ingredients can create complete proteins, which is crucial for those avoiding animal products 3. D'Agostino also highlights the potential for collaboration with food companies to develop ready-made plant-based ketogenic meals, addressing a growing need in the market 3.

Legumes are really good, and nuts and I don't know all the different. I get a variety of different vegetables and they have, if they're combined, you can make complete proteins.

--- Dom D'Agostino

He emphasizes the importance of meal planning and sourcing diverse ingredients to ensure nutritional adequacy.

   

Microbiome Impact

The impact of a ketogenic diet on gut health and microbiome diversity is a significant consideration. Dom D'Agostino explains that while a keto diet can reduce microbiome diversity, incorporating a variety of plant-based foods can mitigate this effect 4. Foods like leafy greens, artichokes, and avocados provide prebiotic fibers that support gut health 3. He notes that many people on a keto diet experience improvements in gut health, such as reduced inflammation and bloating 3.

There's some indication that if you follow certain types of ketogenic diets, it could reduce the diversity of the gut microbiome that is really dependent upon the types of food.

--- Dom D'Agostino

D'Agostino advises using probiotics when starting a keto diet to help manage shifts in the microbiome.