I’m running on keto now. Never heard of it? The ketogenic diet could be called Low Carb Plus. Instead of losing weight, its aim is to reduce risk factors making bread and pasta taboo!
Keto – What?
The ketogenic diet describes an approach of a low-carbohydrate and very high-fat diet. The main aim is to minimize the risk factors for chronic diseases. Some of the other advantages include constant weight loss and increased energy. Cognitive health and hormonal balance are also improved by this form of nutrition.
Since the body is not given any carbohydrates, it takes fats as an alternative source of energy and activates what is known as ketosis, a kind of metabolism. The name, Ketogenic, is connected with the fact that ketone bodies are formed by this diet.
What and how much can one eat?
The idea is to reduce the intake of carbohydrates considerably. As a rough rule of thumb, you can concentrate on 30 grams of carbohydrate per day. These 30 grams are then best divided amongst 3 meals. The amount of protein should be moderate, about 15-20% is a good guideline. This type of diet should contain significantly more fats (which is probably more than what you are used to.) High-quality fats are important to help one avoid a harmful calorie deficit. If the calorie intake is too low, the brain begins to think that the body is starving and the metabolism is slowed. A slow metabolism is bad for losing weight. Fat is essential for a successful keto diet.
Here is what you should keep in mind: The change is not immediate. The body needs some time for the fat burning to be set in motion.
Curious? Have a look at our pictures of the Keto kitchen!
Cover: StockFood / Bauer Syndication / #12510122
What do you think?
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