Influencers, celebrities, doctors, chefs, and athletes who have embraced or promoted the ketogenic lifestyle.
Famous Keto People: The Influencers, Celebs, and Experts Leading the Ketogenic Movement
The ketogenic diet has surged in popularity over the past decade, thanks in part to the many high-profile individuals who’ve embraced it for weight loss, improved mental clarity, better athletic performance, and overall health. From Hollywood stars to medical professionals and fitness gurus, these famous keto people have helped bring the low-carb, high-fat lifestyle into the mainstream.
In this post, we’ll highlight some of the most recognizable names in the keto world — from pioneers and advocates to celebrities who’ve shared their keto journeys with millions.
1. Dr. Eric Westman – The Medical Advocate
Dr. Eric Westman is a physician and researcher known for his work in obesity and diabetes management. A former student of Dr. Atkins, he’s been instrumental in bringing scientific credibility to the low-carb and ketogenic diets.
He co-authored several books with Dr. Richard K. Bernstein and Dr. Adam Nally, including *The New Atkins for a New You*. Dr. Westman runs the Duke University Lifestyle Medicine Clinic, where he prescribes keto-based interventions for patients with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
> Why he matters: He’s one of the few mainstream doctors actively promoting keto as a legitimate therapeutic tool.
2. Jimmy Moore – The Podcast King of Keto
Jimmy Moore is often considered the unofficial “poster boy” of the keto movement. He lost over 180 pounds using low-carb and ketogenic principles and has since become one of the most influential voices in the community.
He runs the popular podcast *The Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Show* (now *The Jimmy Moore Show*) and has authored multiple best-selling books, including *Keto Clarity* (with Dr. Eric Westman) and *Cholesterol Clarity*.
> Why he matters: His personal journey and media presence have inspired countless others to try keto.
3. Maria Emmerich – The Nutritionist Behind the Results
Maria Emmerich is a nutritionist and author who specializes in low-carb and keto-friendly meal plans. She’s helped thousands of people lose weight and improve their health through her books, coaching programs, and easy-to-follow recipes.
Her husband, Craig Emmerich, is also a key figure in the keto space, contributing to recipe development and focusing on ancestral nutrition.
> Why she matters: Her science-backed approach and focus on practical solutions make keto accessible to everyone.
4. Halle Berry – The Oscar-Winning Keto Convert
Halle Berry isn’t just an Academy Award-winning actress — she’s also a vocal advocate for the ketogenic diet. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in her 20s, she credits keto with helping her manage her condition naturally.
She’s spoken publicly about how keto helps stabilize her blood sugar levels and gives her sustained energy.
> Why she matters: As a celebrity with a chronic illness, her endorsement brings awareness to keto’s potential therapeutic benefits.
5. LeBron James – The Athlete Who Tries Keto
LeBron James famously adopted a version of the keto diet during the 2017–2018 NBA season under the guidance of his trainer, Mike Mancias. While he didn’t go full keto, he focused on cutting out processed foods and increasing healthy fats.
Though he later modified his approach, his openness to keto principles showed that even elite athletes can benefit from fat-adaptation.
> Why he matters: His experimentation with keto sparked conversations about its role in sports performance.
6. Tim Tebow – The NFL Star and Keto Enthusiast
Tim Tebow, former NFL quarterback and current MLB player, has spoken about following a low-carb, high-fat diet similar to keto. He focuses on clean eating, intermittent fasting, and staying in peak physical condition year-round.
While not strictly keto, his nutritional choices align closely with many keto principles, especially when it comes to fueling intense workouts.
> Why he matters: Shows that keto-style eating can support high-level athletic performance.
7. Dave Asprey – The Biohacker Behind Bulletproof
Dave Asprey is the founder of Bulletproof and a pioneer in biohacking. While Bulletproof isn’t strictly keto, it overlaps heavily with ketogenic principles — especially in its emphasis on high-quality fats, brain fuel, and optimized energy.
His signature Bulletproof Coffee (coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil) became a keto staple for many.
> Why he matters: Introduced millions to the idea of upgrading your diet for cognitive and physical performance.
8. Megan Ramos – Fasting & Keto Expert
Megan Ramos, along with Dr. Jason Fung, co-founded the Intensive Dietary Management Program in Toronto. She’s a leading expert in fasting and how it complements the ketogenic lifestyle.
Her expertise lies in reversing type 2 diabetes and obesity through dietary changes like keto and intermittent fasting.
> Why she matters: She bridges the gap between keto and time-restricted eating, two powerful tools for metabolic health.
9. Dom D’Agostino – The Scientist Exploring Ketones
Dr. Dom D’Agostino is a professor at the University of South Florida and a leading researcher in ketogenic therapies. He studies ketones as alternative fuels for the brain, particularly in conditions like epilepsy, cancer, and neurological disorders.
He works with the U.S. military on ketogenic protocols for extreme environments and has appeared on numerous podcasts discussing the science behind ketosis.
> Why he matters: His research pushes the boundaries of what keto can do beyond weight loss.
10. Kim Kardashian – The Celebrity Who Made Keto Trendy
Kim Kardashian made headlines in 2020 when she announced she was going keto — or at least trying to — for a month. While she admitted it was tough, she praised the mental clarity and energy boost she experienced.
She’s also followed the more structured “Modified Keto” plan designed by her nutritionist, which includes intermittent fasting.
> Why she matters: Her platform introduced keto to millions of fans around the world.
Honorable Mentions
- Joe Rogan – Talks frequently about keto and fasting on his podcast.
- Ben Greenfield – Fitness and biohacking coach who integrates keto into his training routines.
- Dr. Sarah Hallberg – Medical director at Virta Health, pioneering keto for reversing type 2 diabetes.
- Thomas DeLauer – Fitness and nutrition influencer with a strong focus on keto and intermittent fasting.
Final Thoughts: Why These Voices Matter
The rise of keto wouldn’t have been possible without the real-life stories, scientific research, and passionate advocacy of these individuals. Whether they’re doctors, athletes, or everyday people who found success, their contributions have made the keto lifestyle more accessible, credible, and sustainable. Whether you’re new to keto or looking to deepen your knowledge, following these famous keto people can provide inspiration, education, and motivation on your own journey.
Want to Start Your Own Keto Journey?
Here are a few tips to get started:
- Focus on whole foods: meat, eggs, leafy greens, healthy fats.
- Limit carbs to 20–50g net carbs per day.
- Stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes.
- Consider tracking macros until you get the hang of it.
- Find a supportive community or follow keto influencers for inspiration.
What About You?
Have any of these famous keto people inspired your own journey? Let us know in the comments below — and share your favorite keto tip or recipe!