What You Should Know About the Keto Diet
The Keto Diet focuses on high-fat foods, particularly unsaturated fats from olive oil, avocados and nuts. It also allows some saturated fat from animal products like milk, butter, lard and bacon. Generally, followers of the keto diet eat fewer than 20 to 50 grams of carbohydrates per day, and more than 60% of their calories from fat.
The keto diet was originally developed by experts to treat specific types of childhood epilepsy, but it’s become popular as a weight loss strategy. The diet restricts carbohydrates, which forces the body to break down and use fat for energy. The process is known as “ketosis.” This can lead to many health benefits, including a lowering of insulin levels and an improvement in blood sugar control. It can also reduce hunger and improve the ability to focus.
Those following the keto diet may experience some side effects, such as dizziness, fatigue and diarrhea. Some people also have difficulty losing weight. Those who follow the keto diet closely should practice reading food labels and counting carbs to ensure that they are staying within their carb limit.
Those who want to try the keto diet should consult their doctors before beginning it. Doctors can help create a personalized nutrition plan to meet an individual’s needs and goals. It’s also important to enlist the support of friends and family members. If they know that you are trying to lose weight, they can be more likely to help make sure you choose healthy places for meals and not tempting treats like chips.
