The ketogenic diet, or “keto” diet, has been gaining popularity in recent years as a way to lose weight and improve overall health. But what exactly is the keto diet and how does it work? In this blog post, we’ll break down the basics of the keto diet and explain how it can help with weight loss, blood sugar control, and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
What is the Keto Diet?
The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that is designed to put the body into a state of ketosis, in which it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. When following the keto diet, the goal is to consume high amounts of healthy fats, moderate amounts of protein, and very low amounts of carbohydrates.
How Does the Keto Diet Work?
When the body is in a state of ketosis, it switches from burning glucose (a type of sugar) for energy to burning ketones (a type of fat). This is achieved by drastically reducing carb intake and increasing fat intake. When there aren’t enough carbs to burn for energy, the body turns to burning stored fat for fuel.
Benefits of the Keto Diet
Weight Loss: One of the most popular reasons people try the keto diet is for weight loss. Because the body is burning fat for energy instead of carbs, it can lead to significant weight loss.
Blood Sugar Control: The keto diet has also been shown to improve blood sugar control, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. By reducing carb intake and increasing fat intake, blood sugar levels can become more stable.
Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases: Some studies have also suggested that the keto diet may reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s.
Getting Started on the Keto Diet
The keto diet can be a bit of a drastic change for some people, so it’s important to start slowly. Here are some tips for getting started:
Final Thoughts
The keto diet can be a great way to lose weight and improve overall health. But as with any diet, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any major changes to your eating habits. Additionally, it is important to keep track of your progress and adjust your approach accordingly