The ketogenic or “keto” diet is one of the latestlow-carbdiets taking over your Instagram feed.
Actually, it is not “new” at all.
This renewed interest in the diet, especially after a TV movie was made about itstarring Meryl Streep.
So, is keto the weight loss secret you’ve been praying for?
What is the ketogenic diet and ketosis?
Calories are usually not limited on the keto diet.
Your body then begins to tap into its fat stores for energy.
The exact number of carbohydrates to achieve ketosis depends on the individual.
Protein intake can also have an affect.
These symptoms usually resolve within a week or so, once your body has adjusted.
Another odd side effect of being in ketosis is that yourbreath may smell sweetlike acetone or nail polish remover.
One of the ketones created during ketosis is acetone, which is expelled via the breath.
Chewing sugar free gum can help mask this symptom.
The keto flu should only last a few days as your body transitions.
Your appetite may decrease
Ketosis may help you control your appetite and therefore eat less.
But, we store well over 20,000 calories worth of fat, even if we are not overweight.
If your blood sugar remains relatively stable, so should your energy.
You may lose weight
The keto diet has been promoted as resulting in dramatic weight loss.
And there is definitely research to support that.
Eating fewer calories leads to weight loss.
Ketosis makes it relatively easy for most people to eat fewer calories because they are just not hungry.
The reason keto works for weight loss is because it helps reduce appetite, and therefore calories.
Remember, keto encourages the intake of fat, which has over double the calories of carbs or protein.
Regardless of what some may lead you to believe, eating too many calories is eating too many calories.
And you won’t experience the weight loss you’re seeking.
The keto diet is a great way to help control blood sugar levels.
But it’s not just for migraines.
It can help improve memory and cognition for people at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
It’s unlikely most people will be able to follow a strict keto diet long-term.
