Why does the keto diet improve detoxification?

Detoxification — is a complex metabolic process through which the body neutralizes and eliminates toxins.

This process mainly occurs in the liver and involves two phases: oxidation (phase I) and conjugation (phase II). For both stages to work effectively, proteins, amino acids, antioxidants, and coenzymes — including alpha-ketoglutarate — are necessary.

Why More Protein is Needed for Detoxification

Amino acids are involved in phase II of detoxification. The body uses amino acids such as glycine, cysteine, methionine, glutamine, taurine, and arginine to bind toxins and convert them into a water-soluble form. These amino acids come from dietary proteins or are synthesized in the body (if there are precursor proteins).

Proteins are necessary for enzyme synthesis. Both stages of detoxification require enzymes — cytochromes, transferases, glutathione S-transferases — which are synthesized from proteins.

Protein deficiency → slowed detoxification. When there is a protein deficiency, the body cannot fully synthesize enzymes and produce amino acids for binding toxins. This leads to their accumulation and cell damage.

The Role of Alpha-Ketoglutarate

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) — is a metabolite of the Krebs cycle, playing a key role in energy metabolism and detoxification. It:

• serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of glutamate and glutamine, which are necessary for the production of glutathione — the main cellular antioxidant;
• participates in the detoxification of ammonia, converting it into less toxic forms;
• modulates the redox balance, protecting cells from free radicals.

At the same time, it is activated in ketosis — under low glucose levels, when the body uses fats as fuel.

Why the Keto Diet is Preferable for Detoxification

Stable blood sugar levels and absence of sharp insulin spikes. This allows cells to function more stably, reducing inflammation levels, and promotes the activation of autophagy.

Production of ketone bodies, including beta-hydroxybutyrate and AKG. AKG supports mitochondrial functions, aids in toxin neutralization, and enhances recovery processes in the liver.

Increased fat intake and moderate protein. The keto diet provides amino acids necessary for detoxification without overloading the liver with excess nitrogen, as is the case with high-carb and high-protein diets simultaneously.

Stimulation of autophagy. In ketosis, autophagy is activated — the process of "self-cleaning" of cells from damaged proteins, organelles, and toxins.