Grant: Project Grant

The World Health Organization estimates that within the next 12 years, nearly 50% of the world's population (or close to 4 billion people) will be overweight or obese. While newer drugs are being developed that can help with weight loss, the clinical recommendation is to first attempt lifestyle interventions (i.e. dieting or exercise). One particular diet recently gaining popularity is the ketogenic diet (referred to as keto diets), which is a dietary pattern high in fat but very low in sugar and other carbohydrates. Unfortunately, there is still limited information from animal and human research as to whether keto diets are actually beneficial for one's health, particularly in those individuals who are living with overweight or obesity and at risk of diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, the goal of this research is to perform animal studies to assess the impact of keto diets on health in the context of obesity. Importantly, Health Canada now recommends that we consume more of our fats from plant-based foods versus animal-based foods, since the former are thought to be the more healthful fats. As such, our studies in animals will compare keto diets that are enriched in fats from plants (ex. Canola oil) versus those from animals (ex. butter), to determine whether the main lipid source of the keto diet one consumes is more healthful. The successful completion of our research will provide much-needed information for the public regarding the use of keto diets as a dietary strategy for managing one's body weight, while also identifying why these diets may be beneficial. In addition, our research will help to further shape the recommendations from Health Canada.