Chapter 31: Supplements for
the ketogenic diet
There are a number of supplements which can be useful on a ketogenic diet, depending on
the goal of the dieter. This chapter discusses general supplements such as a basic multi-
vitamin/mineral, anti-oxidants, fiber supplements, and fatty acid supplements.
Basic multi-vitamin/mineral
Any calorically restricted diet may not provide for all nutritional requirements and the
limited number of food available on a ketogenic diet may cause deficiencies as discussed in
chapter 7 (1).
At the very least, individuals on a ketogenic diet should take some form of sugar free
vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure nutritional adequacy. Additionally, supplemental
sodium, magnesium and potassium may be necessary, as detailed in chapter 7. Depending on
dairy intake, a calcium supplement may also be necessary.
As a general rule, there is little difference between the vitamins sold in health food stores
and those sold in the grocery store. Obviously if individuals wish to take higher doses of any given
nutrient, a more expensive vitamin/mineral formulation is necessary.
Anti-oxidants
A great deal of recent research is currently focusing on the benefit of various anti-oxidant
nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene (2,3). These substances, as well as
many others, may help to prevent tissue damage from substances called ‘free radicals’. Free
radicals are thought to damage cells causing the accumulation of toxic chemicals. Individuals
involved in intense exercise appear to generate an excess of free radicals so supplementation
may be indicated (4). Additionally, the few carbohydrates which are consumed on a ketogenic diet
should come from a variety of vegetable sources whenever possible. Individuals on a CKD should
try to consume vegetables during the carb-loading period. Dosing of anti-oxidant nutrients is
highly individual and readers are encouraged to review one of the many books available on this
subject.
Fiber supplements
As discussed in chapter 7, a common side effect of ketogenic diets is a decrease in bowel
movements. At least part of this is caused by the general lack of fiber in the ketogenic diet. For
this reason, a sugar-free fiber supplement may be useful to maintain regularity. Additionally,