The ketogenic diet, or “keto” diet, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has been shown to help some people lose weight. The idea behind the diet is to enter a metabolic state called ketosis, in which the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. To enter ketosis, you need to drastically reduce your intake of carbohydrates and increase your intake of healthy fats. Some foods that are allowed on the diet include meat, fish, eggs, non-starchy vegetables, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil. Some foods that are not allowed on the diet include grains, sugars, and most fruits. It’s important to consult with a doctor or a registered dietitian before starting any new diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Keto diet Benefits
The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has been used for medical and weight loss purposes for over 90 years. The goal of the diet is to put your body into a state of ketosis, where it’s burning fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
A typical ketogenic diet plan typically consists of:
- High-fat foods such as nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil, and coconut oil.
- Moderate-protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
- Low-carbohydrates foods such as non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Foods that are typically avoided on the ketogenic diet include grains, sugar, and high-carb fruits.
The benefits of the ketogenic diet include weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and reduced risk of certain diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Some studies have also found that the diet can improve brain function, reduce seizures in people with epilepsy and may have benefits in treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
It’s important to note that the ketogenic diet is not for everyone and may not be appropriate for certain individuals, such as those with kidney or liver disease. It’s always best to speak with a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet.
It’s also important to note that in order to maintain the ketogenic state and benefits, it’s crucial to follow the diet strictly and also to monitor ketone levels in the body.