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Is the Keto diet effective?

Introduction: What is a keto diet?

By Lanz JalalPublished 2 years ago 3 min read
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Is the Keto diet effective?
Photo by Total Shape on Unsplash

Introduction: What is a keto diet?

A keto (ketogenic) diet is one that is low in carbohydrates and high in fat, with moderate protein consumption. A keto diet can be used as a weight-loss plan or to help treat epilepsy, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders. The keto diet got its name because it triggers the body into producing ketones or ketone bodies, which are then used for energy.

The ketogenic diet has been touted as a "cure-all" for centuries. But it wasn't until recently that research and mainstream media attention started to take notice. The keto (short for "ketogenic") diet is a very low-carb, high-fat diet that forces the body to burn fat instead of carbs. When someone follows this diet, their bodies enter a natural metabolic state called ketosis where the liver converts fats into fatty acids and then into energy.

By Brooke Lark on Unsplash

Why Ketogenic Diet?

Studies done on keto diets show they are effective for weight loss and controlling type 2 diabetes. The diet can also help with autoimmune disorders and neurological issues.

A ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet. It focuses on altering your body's operation so that you can burn fat.

This in turn can cause weight loss and health benefits for people with different goals. It's one of many diets that people use to lose weight and improve their health.

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How to Transition To Keto?

There are many ways to transition onto a keto diet. One way is limiting carbs, opting for high-quality protein sources, and avoiding grains and sugars.

However, if you're not quite ready to commit to a long-term keto diet, consider making small changes like adding some fresh fruit or swapping out dessert for a healthier option like Greek yogurt. It is recommended to gradually transition to a ketogenic diet, and include lots of non-starchy vegetables and high-quality fats in the diet.

A typical ketogenic diet includes not only the exclusion of carbs but also the elimination of many processed foods that typically contain ingredients such as sugar or soy. For example, while oats and cereal may be excluded from a ketogenic diet, avocados and almonds certainly would not be.

By Reka Biro-Horvath on Unsplash

Is the keto diet safe?

The goal of the ketogenic diet is to create a state of ketosis, which makes it easier for your body to burn fat and produce ketones. This has been shown to lower blood sugar and insulin levels and reduce inflammation. However, people with kidney or heart disease, type 1 diabetes, and pregnant women should not follow this diet.

The ketogenic diet follows a strict guideline for macronutrient intake, restricting carbohydrate consumption so the body shifts from glucose to fat as the main source of fuel. Thus it has been shown to have many benefits, including weight loss and management. However, the potential risks of very low carb diets are not well-known and therefore should be discussed with a doctor.

Get Your FREE copy of The Essential Keto Cookbook Today!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has many benefits for people looking to lose weight or to better manage their diabetes. It can be done by following the keto lifestyle which includes eating foods like butter, eggs, bacon, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

Is the keto diet effective? What are the health risks? The Keto diet can provide many health benefits that come with it. However, the Keto diet does have its complications. So before you start on keto, please do a full body check-up and consult your doctor if keto is suitable for you.

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About the Creator

Lanz Jalal

I am a professional photographer, a foodie, a blogger, and a Singapore local Google guide. I love capturing the little details in life that make it worth living.

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