A new study suggests that following a very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) can help lower biological age and potentially reverse it in obese individuals. The researchers, who studied 54 people, including 10 with obesity, found that those on the VLCKD had an epigenetic age that was 6.2 years younger than their actual age. In contrast, those with obesity not on the diet had a biological age 4.4 years greater than their age in years.
The study highlights the potential of nutritional strategies like VLCKD to counteract the impact of obesity on epigenetic aging. The researchers suspect that being in nutritional ketosis was responsible for the decelerated aging, with levels of beta-hydroxybutyrate linked to slower biological aging.
However, the keto diet has its risks and controversy. A low-carb diet can be difficult to maintain, and adherence may lead to nutrient deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, or other health issues. The study does not report adverse events in detail, but long-term safety data are lacking, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with kidney issues.
While more research is needed to confirm these findings, this study suggests that a VLCKD may be a useful tool in addressing obesity-related biological aging.
Source: https://fortune.com/well/2025/03/31/keto-diet-reverse-biological-aging