Hello everyone! I was hoping to get some advice. Sorry - this is a long one.
Both my parents are over weight, especially my dad. My mom is already gluten-free and coconut free, and my dad eats anything and everything.
My dad (age 62) is going to need a knee replacement within the next year (both knees eventually), and really needs to lose 40+ pounds. I don’t doubt the efficacy of keto, as both my husband and I lost weight and felt great and have kept it off. What worries me about starting my parents on keto however, are their prior health issues. Honestly, I feel like most doctors poo-poo the keto diet, so I worry about my dad bringing it up and asking if it’s healthy for him to be on, and the doctor making keto sounds terrible. That being said, he’s on a couple medications, and has elevated creatine levels and can struggle with low iron. At the moment, he uses molasses to boost his iron. I know keto isn’t “high protein” but I’m curious if anyone has had elevated (I don’t know how high) creatine levels and has seen an improvement while on keto. Also - for those who have prior health issues, did you consult your doctors before starting keto, or just started it and surprised your doctors with your health improvements? I believe he has high cholesterol as well.
If you have talked to your doctors - what did they say?
Now, my mom (age 61) had her gallbladder removed and fat flies right through her (TMI sorry). I’m curious if anyone has been successful on keto, without a gallbladder and could give me some tips. She also was pre-diabetic, and while she has done good with losing some weight, I think keto would help balance her hormones, and help with her thyroid. Her hormones are all over the place, and she’s been going through menopause for 5+ years.
They both previously did the “wheat belly diet” and while it wasn’t keto, it was low-ish carb and they felt great. They also lost a good amount of weight but didn’t keep it off.
I’d love any thoughts on the subject, honestly. Even if it’s - don’t start them on keto.
Thank you to anyone who read this far. I really appreciate it.