Keto While Pregnant

What is the keto diet?

On the keto diet, you’re typically allowed lots of meat and fat, but less than 50 grams (g) of carbs a day.

165 g fat
40 g carbohydrates
75 g protein

Risk for pregnant women: Nutrient deficiencies

Carbs are a huge no-no in this diet — including fruits and most vegetables, which have natural sugars.

If you’re eating a keto diet you might have low levels of:

magnesium
B vitamins
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E

Not getting enough of some vitamins and minerals can lead to problems in your baby’s growth and development. Vital nutrients for your baby include:

vitamin D for healthy bones and teeth
vitamin E for healthy muscles and blood
vitamin B-12 for healthy spinal cord and nerves

Risk for pregnant women: Saturated fat

Protein is part of the keto diet, but most keto diets don’t differentiate between healthy, lean protein and the kinds with lots of saturated fats like beef and pork. In fact, since fat is so encouraged, the diet can actually lead people to eat more unhealthy meat.