The Atkins diet may be one of the variations of a ketogenic diet.
I am not a fan of the Atkins Diet, although I have seen ppl do very well and even improve their cholesterol /lipids, etc. The Atkins allows lots of artificial sweeteners, etc. (See an "Atkins meal bar.") It also allows things like lots of bacon fat, etc.

Other versions do not allow dairy, gluten, grains. The main sweetener is all natural or Stevia. It's largely a low carb Paleo diet, the fat content is high; however, the fats are unsweetened coconut milk (low carb --canned only), fish oils, flax oil, chia seeds, flax seeds. (Coconut milk has a high medium-chain triglyceride content -- MCT -- which supports weight loss. MCTs are used by many body builders, etc.) Veggies are largely lower carb veggies.
Lower carb green smoothies are allowed, etc.

We have to go into "ketosis" to burn any fat, to lose ANY weight.
"Ketosis" is not dangerous, "ketoacidosis" is dangerous-- and they are very different states.

You can read Dr. Wahls' own story at: Terry Wahls MD | Defeating Progressive Multiple Sclerosis without Drugs | MS Recovery | Food As Medicine | The official website of Terry Wahls, MD, author and physician who has recovered from secondary progressive multiple sclerosis by using the Wahl. She also has several youtubes out.

The level Wahls protocol has 3 level of the dietary part of the protocol. Only the most strict is "ketogenic." Level 2 is straight Paleo.

There are many theories/cases where high carb intake worsens the cholesterol profile and healthy fats decrease cholesterol counts.

Dr. Wahls' suggests the ultra low-fat diets (and/or the use of statins) strip the brain of needed fat for optimal brain health.

I firmly believe a generalized statement denouncing all ketogenic diets for everyone is an uneducated stance.


WC

P.S. Young people on Depakote (higher doses) would be wise to have regular checks on liver function if on a ketogenic diet.
I have my liver and kidney function checked 2-4 times a year whether or not I am following a fat-burning protocol..