Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the health risks associated with low carbohydrate diets, particularly the negative effects of insufficient carbohydrate intake on overall health and well-being [3][4][5][7][10]. Group 1: Health Risks of Low Carbohydrate Diets - Insufficient carbohydrate intake can lead to low blood sugar, metabolic dysfunction, and excessive protein consumption, negatively impacting various bodily functions [3]. - A study from March 2023 indicates that ketogenic diets can double the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes [4]. - Participants who consume little to no staple foods have a twofold increased risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to those on regular diets [5]. Group 2: Long-term Consequences - A comprehensive study published in 2018 suggests that inadequate carbohydrate consumption may shorten lifespan, with both very low and very high carbohydrate intake associated with increased mortality risk [7]. - Regularly avoiding staple foods can impair memory and cognitive functions due to insufficient energy supply to the brain [9]. - Long-term lack of staple foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies, emotional instability, and various physical side effects such as bad breath, hair loss, and muscle loss [10][11]. Group 3: Dietary Recommendations - To effectively manage weight, it is essential to control total caloric intake while ensuring a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates [12]. - Recommended staple foods include whole grains and root vegetables, which provide satiety without high glycemic indices [14]. - According to the Chinese Dietary Guidelines, daily intake of grain foods should be 200-300 grams, including 50-150 grams of whole grains and legumes, and 50-100 grams of root vegetables [17].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent findings on the ketogenic diet, revealing its mechanisms for weight loss beyond traditional beliefs, particularly focusing on the role of specific bile acids and gut microbiota in reducing calorie absorption and promoting fat metabolism [6][7][15]. Group 1: Mechanisms of Ketogenic Diet - The ketogenic diet induces the production of ketone bodies, leading the body to utilize fat as an energy source, but recent studies show it also significantly increases energy expenditure [7]. - Research from Fudan University indicates that the ketogenic diet alters gut microbiota composition, reducing levels of bile salt hydrolase (BSH) and increasing levels of taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA) and taurocholic acid (TUDCA), which inhibit calorie absorption [7][12]. - A clinical study involving over 400 participants confirmed that lower plasma levels of TDCA and TUDCA correlate with higher BMI and fasting blood glucose levels, suggesting these bile acids could be potential therapeutic targets for obesity [8][14]. Group 2: Experimental Findings - In a study with mice on a high-fat ketogenic diet (75.1% fat), significant weight loss and reduced fasting blood glucose were observed, alongside an increase in 22 metabolites, including six bile acids [11]. - The study found that TDCA and TUDCA significantly reduced body weight and improved glucose tolerance in normal diet mice, indicating their crucial role in the weight loss mechanism of the ketogenic diet [11][12]. - Analysis of gut microbiota revealed that specific strains, such as Lactobacillus murinus ASF361, significantly influence the levels of TDCA and TUDCA, thereby affecting weight and blood sugar levels [12][16]. Group 3: Clinical Implications - Participants in a 12-week ketogenic diet study lost an average of 5.27 kg, with significant increases in plasma TDCA and TUDCA levels, correlating with changes in BMI and fasting blood glucose [14]. - The findings support the potential of TDCA and TUDCA as therapeutic targets for obesity and related metabolic diseases, providing a new perspective on the mechanisms of weight loss through the ketogenic diet [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of ketogenic diets and presents new research findings that reveal the mechanisms behind weight loss associated with this diet, particularly focusing on the role of specific bile acids and gut microbiota [5][15]. Group 1: Mechanisms of Ketogenic Diet - Ketogenic diets induce the production of ketone bodies, prompting the body to utilize fat as an energy source, but recent studies indicate that the weight loss mechanisms are more complex [5]. - Research from Fudan University shows that ketogenic diets alter gut microbiota composition, leading to decreased levels of bile salt hydrolase (BSH), which results in increased levels of taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA) and taurocholic acid (TUDCA) in the bloodstream [5][6]. - TDCA and TUDCA inhibit the expression of intestinal carbonic anhydrase 1, directly blocking calorie absorption [5][12]. Group 2: Clinical Observations and Findings - A clinical study involving over 400 participants confirmed the findings, suggesting that TDCA and TUDCA could serve as potential drug targets for treating obesity and its complications [6]. - In a 7-week study on mice fed a high-fat ketogenic diet (75.1% fat), significant reductions in body weight and fasting blood glucose were observed, alongside an increase in 22 metabolites, including six bile acids [9]. - The study also indicated that the presence of certain bile acids, particularly TDCA and TUDCA, plays a crucial role in the weight loss effects of the ketogenic diet [9][14]. Group 3: Gut Microbiota and Weight Loss - Analysis of the gut environment in mice revealed that the levels of TDCA and TUDCA are closely related to gut microbiota changes, with specific strains like Lactobacillus murinus ASF361 significantly impacting body weight and blood glucose levels [11][12]. - The study found that L. murinus ASF361 reduces serum levels of TDCA and TUDCA by metabolizing them into other bile acids, which suggests a complex interaction between diet, gut bacteria, and metabolic outcomes [12]. Group 4: Human Study Correlation - Data from 416 healthy participants indicated a correlation between low plasma levels of TDCA and TUDCA with high BMI and fasting blood glucose levels [14]. - Participants in a 12-week ketogenic diet study lost an average of 5.27 kg, with significant increases in plasma TDCA and TUDCA levels, aligning with findings from mouse experiments [14].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the increasing importance of fitness in modern Chinese society, highlighting a shift in values where physical health and fitness are prioritized over traditional luxury goods [8][10]. Group 1: Fitness Trends in China - As of the end of 2022, China has become the country with the largest number of fitness enthusiasts, with 374 million people engaging in exercise at least twice a week [10]. - The rise in fitness participation is partly driven by the growing obesity challenge in China, with 402 million overweight or obese individuals aged 25 and above as of 2021, the highest globally [10]. - The national health authorities have begun to emphasize weight management, indicating that obesity-related healthcare costs could exceed 400 billion yuan in five years [10]. Group 2: Evolving Fitness Culture - Fitness activities are diversifying beyond traditional gym workouts, with urban professionals engaging in yoga and other forms of exercise during breaks [11]. - New fitness trends, such as CrossFit and animal flow training, are gaining popularity, influenced by social media and fitness influencers [11]. - Dietary habits among fitness enthusiasts are also evolving, with a focus on high-protein, low-carb diets and various meal plans becoming integral to their fitness routines [12]. Group 3: Psychological Aspects of Fitness - There is a growing anxiety surrounding fitness, where individuals feel pressured to maintain strict workout regimens and dietary restrictions, leading to a phenomenon termed "fitness anxiety" [14]. - The fitness industry is characterized by a paradox where the pursuit of health can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as overtraining and reliance on supplements [21][22]. Group 4: Industry Growth and Economic Impact - The sports industry in China is projected to reach a total scale of 3.67 trillion yuan in 2023, with expectations to grow to 5 trillion yuan by 2025, indicating fitness has become a survival necessity [26]. - The article suggests that while fitness is marketed as a path to freedom and self-discipline, it may also impose new constraints on individuals, reflecting a complex relationship with health and wellness [26].

Core Viewpoint - The ketogenic diet, while popular for weight loss and blood sugar control, may accelerate aging and pose health risks, including cancer metastasis and cardiovascular issues [2][4][5][7]. Group 1: Ketogenic Diet Overview - The ketogenic diet is characterized by very low carbohydrate intake, focusing on meat and high-fat foods to induce ketosis for energy [3]. - Originally developed in the 1920s for treating drug-resistant epilepsy, it has gained popularity for weight loss in recent years [4]. Group 2: Health Risks Associated with Ketogenic Diet - Research indicates that the ketogenic diet can lead to cellular aging, as evidenced by studies on mice showing accelerated aging in multiple organs after 21 days on the diet [4]. - A study on mice with breast cancer revealed that those on a ketogenic diet had significantly increased lung metastases, suggesting a link between the diet and cancer progression [6]. Group 3: Alternative Healthy Eating Patterns - The "Oriental Healthy Diet Model" is recommended as a healthier alternative for weight loss, emphasizing a diverse and light diet rich in vegetables, fruits, seafood, dairy, and legumes [8]. - Suggestions include increasing whole grains and reducing refined grains, with a daily intake of 200-300 grams of grains, including 50-150 grams of whole grains [9]. Group 4: Nutritional Recommendations - It is advised to consume 300-500 grams of vegetables and 200-350 grams of fruits daily, ensuring a variety of types [13]. - Daily intake of dairy should be 300-500 grams, along with approximately 35 grams of soy and nuts [14]. - Cooking methods should involve less salt and oil, with a daily limit of 5 grams of salt and 25 grams of oil, favoring steaming and boiling over frying [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article challenges common misconceptions about carbohydrates and emphasizes the importance of consuming staple foods for overall health, highlighting that avoiding carbohydrates may increase the risk of diabetes and other health issues [1][3]. Group 1: Health Risks of Low Carbohydrate Diets - A 14-year study involving nearly 40,000 adults found that those on low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets (with carbohydrate intake below 38%) had a 20% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with a more balanced diet (carbohydrate intake above 55%) [3]. - Insufficient carbohydrate intake can lead to low blood sugar, endocrine and metabolic dysfunction, excessive fat breakdown, and protein overconsumption, negatively impacting various bodily functions [3]. Group 2: Consequences of Inadequate Staple Food Intake - Nutritional deficiencies may arise from reduced staple food consumption, leading to decreased usable protein, resulting in poor skin health, hair loss, and weakened immunity [6]. - Lack of carbohydrates can cause muscle loss, as protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, increasing the risk of osteoporosis in older adults [7]. - Memory and cognitive abilities may decline after just one week of carbohydrate deprivation, as brain cells require glucose for energy [8]. - Insufficient staple food intake can lead to fatigue and drowsiness due to abnormal energy metabolism [10]. - Low carbohydrate intake can result in low blood sugar levels, as glucose is the primary energy source for the body [11]. - Carbohydrates promote serotonin secretion, a chemical that enhances mood; inadequate glucose can lead to irritability and depression [12]. Group 3: Recommendations for Different Populations - For individuals needing weight management and blood sugar control, it is advisable to reduce refined carbohydrates while consuming quality carbohydrates [14]. - Ordinary individuals should include whole grains and legumes in their diet, ensuring daily intake of 50-150 grams or 30%-40% of total carbohydrate intake [17]. - Foods rich in resistant starch, such as corn and tubers, can help slow down blood sugar spikes [18].