Is a Keto Diet Right For You?

A Keto Diet works by restricting carbs and forcing the body to burn fat for energy. This process is called ketosis and it takes the body days or weeks to kick in. The diet is often touted as a fast way to lose weight, but a Keto diet may not be the right choice for everyone, especially in the long term. The diet can be hard to sustain, and it is often accompanied by extreme carb restrictions, which can cause nutrient deficiencies in some people. The plan can also lead to yo-yo dieting, in which a person loses and gains weight repeatedly, making it harder to keep the pounds off in the long run.

The diet also requires consuming a lot of fat, which can be difficult for some people to get used to. Mancinelli recommends starting with a few recipes and foods that you know you will enjoy, and then expanding your horizons as you get more comfortable with the diet. She advises avoiding dairy that isn’t full-fat, such as plain yogurt and milk, and sticking with natural, low-sugar fruits like berries. It’s important to limit sugary beverages too, including “natural” fruit juice and soda.

It’s important to get enough salt and other electrolytes on the diet as well, which can be challenging for some people. To help, Mancinelli recommends adding in a few servings of non-starchy vegetables, such as kale and bell peppers. You can also add in some low-impact exercise, such as swimming or yoga.