That is a conservative estimate.

Historical data from clinical laboratories indicate a higher incidence, possibly closer to444,000 Lyme infections1in the U.S. each year.

Lyme disease left unchecked.

William Cole, IFMCP, DNM, D.C.

Since ticks aresotiny, many people don’t even notice when they’ve been bitten.

Why are we hearing more about Lyme?

So, why is there so much talk about Lyme disease right now?

Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN

There are a few different reasons.

First, Lyme is more common.

CDC data shows us thatcases of Lyme disease6have significantly increased in the past 10 to 20 years.

William Cole, IFMCP, DNM, D.C.

Our modern lifestyle, environment, and Lyme.

Many lifestyle choices and environmental factors have changed.

Lyme-literate functional medicine practitioners like me havea multipronged approach to chronic infections like Lyme.

One of the tools we often use: food as medicine.

How I believe a keto diet supports Lyme healing.

Studies suggest that oxidative stress can contribute tomitochondrial dysfunction9in the immune cells of Lyme patients.

Dysfunction of mitochondria, the energy powerhouse of cells, can manifest asfatigue10, a hallmark Lyme symptom.

This means reducing inflammation is likely crucial for helping to manage Lyme disease and reducing its debilitating symptoms.

Fortunately, this is something a plant-heavy ketogenic diet excels at.

Ketones, including beta-hydroxybutyrate, are not just a form of fuel for the body.

Whether this effect occurs in humans following ketosis is unknown at this time.

Methylation pathways.

TheMTHFR gene mutation, which is estimated to affect30 to 40 percentof the American population, impairs methylation.

Gut microbiome.

A robust immune system is important to help mount an attack against a Lyme infection.

Ini contrast, sweets and processed foods lack valuable nutrients and fiber for gut health.

Bottom line on using keto for Lyme.