Thirst
People who switched to a keto diet sometimes report feeling thirstier than usual, which may indicate an electrolyte imbalance or dehydration. In addition, the high levels of ketones in the body, which occur during ketosis, may cause significant water loss as a side effect. Most of the weight people lose during the first week of switching to a high-fat and low-carb diet is water weight.
According to experts, extreme thirst occurs due to restrictive carbohydrate intake. They also associate it with low insulin levels, which triggers the kidney to release water and sodium.
To help improve the condition, people on keto should level up their water intake to compensate for the loss and avoid any possible complications of dehydration. It is also important to closely watch for other symptoms to monitor if it is getting worse.
Extreme thirst accompanied by dark-colored urine, dizziness, and fatigue are serious signs of dehydration and require prompt medical attention. If left untreated, dehydration may lead to urinary and kidney problems, seizures, and life-threatening heat exhaustion.
