Question:
How long can you stay in ketosis and be safe?

I just started the Atkins diet and I was just checking to see how long can one stay in ketosis? And be safe.    — DBXX (posted on August 7, 2003)

August 7, 2003
the safest thing to do is call your doctor or nurse and ask them. best of luck
   — franbvan

August 7, 2003
I agree with Fran...it really depends on each individual and their current health. My brother who suffers from liver damage cannot stay in ketosis for long at all. Please ask your doctor.
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 8, 2003
Best to check with your physician - they will know, especially tricky if you have any current kidney or liver problems. You do need to have your blood work done on a regular basis. Especially have liver and kidney functions checked regularly. I have a brother in law with no pre-existing liver/kidney problems that has been on Atkins for 3 years. He has lost 78 lbs - kept it off, all his labs are great, cholesterol down, blood pressure normal, etc. He managed to get off all meds and he is now able to exercise more. He has rarely been out of ketosis in the last 3 years, eats alot but has to watch his carbs. BUT everyone is different so check with your doc. CAUTION: If you have had gout prior to Atkins diet WATCH OUT - it sent me into a re-occurance that ended up in the ER on a pain med drip -OUCHY! Good Luck on your journey!
   — Deborah F.

August 8, 2003
From reading the Atkins books, it looks to me that ketosis is not a state to worry about. It's ketoacidosis which is the exact opposite according to Dr. Atkins that you don't want to be in. This is usually something that diabetics experience, not people following the Atkins plan. He says a lot of people confuse the two.
   — Tparker