The keto diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. Unlike other low-carb diets, the keto diet specifically focuses on a macros ratio of 70% fat, 25% protein, and 5% carbohydrates. This macros ratio forces the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
While the keto diet has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its quick weight loss results, it's important to remember that this is not a fad diet and should only be followed under the supervision of a medical professional.
How Does the Keto Diet Work?
As previously mentioned, the keto diet puts your body into a state of ketosis by drastically reducing your carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat. Once in ketosis, your body will burn stored fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This process is often called "fat burning" or "ketosis."
While in ketosis, your body will also excrete more water and urinate more frequently. This is because when your body breaks down stored fat for energy, it produces by-products called ketones. These ketones are then excreted through urine.
Benefits of the Keto Diet
There are many potential benefits associated with following the keto diet, such as weight loss, improved mental clarity and decreased inflammation. One of the most common reasons people choose to follow the keto diet is for weight loss. Because the keto diet causes your body to burn stored fat for energy, it is an effective way to lose weight quickly. In fact, some people can lose up to 10 pounds in just two weeks on the keto diet.
In addition to weight loss, some people also report improved mental clarity while following the keto diet. This is likely due to the increased production of ketones, which have been shown to have neuroprotective effects. Ketones can also help decrease inflammation throughout the body, which may lead to reduced joint pain and improved skin health.
Are There any Risks Associated with Following the Keto Diet?
Yes, there are some risks associated with following the keto diet if it's not done correctly. Because the keto diet requires such a drastic reduction in carbohydrates, it can cause problems like constipation, diarrhea and fatigue during the first few weeks. It's important to drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods like vegetables and nuts to counteract these side effects.
If you're thinking about starting the keto diet, be sure to speak with your doctor first to make sure it's right for you.
Conclusion:
Overall, the keto diet can have some amazing benefits like rapid weight loss and decreased inflammation; however, it's not right for everyone and comes with some risks if not done correctly. If you think the keto diet could be right for you or have any questions about it, be sure to speak with your doctor before making any major changes to your dietary habits.