The Keto Diet- Here’s Everything You Should Know

What Is It?

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As a type of very low carbohydrate diet, the Keto Diet (which is officially known as the ketogenic diet) is said to encourage the body’s metabolism to burn fat rather than glucose or sugar. In order to make the switch, the diet puts the system into a state known as ketosis. Instead of converting the carbohydrates into energy, ketosis allows the body to eliminate fat. Once the body enters ketosis, it will then begin to burn substances known as ketones, which are created once the fat is burned. As part of the diet, high-fat foods are permitted, with restrictions in place on grains such as pasta and baked goods.


What Does The Diet Offer?

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The Keto Diet is said to result in rapid weight loss, along with lowering the body’s blood sugar levels. According to Ketogenic Diet Resource, the presence of ketones in the system can help to treat patients who suffer from diabetes, epilepsy and Alzheimer’s. Followers of the diet must monitor their carbohydrate intake, and stick to a high fat and moderate protein menu. As a rule, daily carbohydrate consumption must be between 20 to 60 grams. While fat will not alter your levels of blood sugar, overindulging in protein is said to lead to an increase in blood sugar. As a result, the diet aims to minimize carbs and control your levels of protein, while placing the focus on lean fats.


Menu Ideas

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If you’re eating the ketogenic way, start off your morning with a cheddar and chive omelette or a bowl of cinnamon oatmeal. For lunch, Keto Diet followers can tuck into an avocado salad made with hard-boiled eggs, fresh lettuce and drizzled olive oil. To wind down a hectic day, try preparing a Keto-friendly dinner of roasted salmon served with steamed broccoli and lemon.


Should You Try It?

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While the Keto Diet can quickly help the body shed water weight, a ketogenic meal plan may also lead to unwanted side effects such as fatigue. According to Healthline.com, the ketones that are introduced into the system can result in a dangerous condition known as ketoacidosis, which caused the blood to become acidic. In extreme cases, ketogenic diets can also lead to heart problems. However, the diet also claims to reduce levels of harmful cholesterol and to lower the body’s levels of triglycerides (which are blood lipids). If you’re considering the Keto Diet, it may be a smart health move to consult with your family physician or a dietician first.