If you’ve been keeping an ear to the rumor mill, you’ve definitely heard about the Keto diet lately. But what exactly does that entail? How do you do it? Is it really all it’s cracked up to be? We did some research to find out what’s what with Keto.
What Is Keto?
Keto, or the Ketogenic diet, is a low-carb diet that is supposed to train your body to burn fat instead of glucose. Typically, our bodies burn glucose molecules, or blood sugar. When that blood sugar is low, the body instead produces ketones, fat molecules that can be burned to produce energy. The intention of this diet is to change how your body consumes calories and produces energy. It can help with weight loss, boost energy, and increase muscle tone.
What Do I Eat On A Keto Diet?
Keto focuses on good fat and low carbs. Those on a keto diet can expect a high meat diet supplemented with low-carb vegetables. The main foods to avoid on a keto diet include bread, fruit, candy, soda, and most alcohols. There are dozens of resources online to help you with recipes and ideas, and you’ll be surprised at what you can make even with this restricted diet. For instance, here’s a tasty recipe I whipped up over the weekend that was keto and crazy easy: No-Bake Keto Peanut Butter Bars.
Does It Really Work?
This is where the topic gets a little fuzzy. While anecdotally many people swear by the keto diet, very few studies have been done on the long-term effects of this lifestyle. Some people experience constipation, low energy, and other medical issues on this diet. Every body is different, so you should talk to your doctor before starting this diet to make sure you are managing your health in a controlled way.
Is It Dangerous?
Any fad diet has the potential to cause problems. This diet is based on forcing the body into ketosis, a state of starvation survival. While you won’t literally be starving your body, you will be starving it of sugars and carbohydrates, which can potentially cause harm if not monitored. The keto diet is not recommended for those with diabetes who take insulin, those on high blood pressure medication, or breastfeeding mothers.
The Bottom Line
No one diet is the cure-all to weight loss and healthy living. If you’re interested in the benefits of the keto diet, talk to your doctor and give it a try! It may work wonders for you. But if it doesn’t, don’t be discouraged. Every body is different, and there are dozens of different eating plans you can try to achieve a healthier, happier you.
