You have probably already heard of the emerging trend of the ketogenic diet for weight reduction. There are plenty of myths surrounding this trending keto diet. Some claim it to be very effective while others say it has an adverse impact on your health in the long run. But, what is keto diet? How does it help in weight reduction? Why is it so much talked about and famous? Maintain reading in order to get answers to these questions.
What Exactly is a Ketogenic Diet?
Before you jump into the bandwagon for weight reduction by keto diet, it is essential to understand what keto means and how it works. A ketogenic diet is all about cutting down on carbohydrates with an increased intake of healthy fats and proteins. Ideally, the percentage of caloric intake is 70%-80% from fats, almost 20% from proteins and about 5% from carbohydrates.
How Does a Ketogenic Diet Work?
Due to a reduced intake of carbohydrates, the body switches to fats by producing ketones as an alternative source for energy. This production of ketones shifts your body to ketosis which is a metabolic state resulting in weight reduction.
A ketogenic diet can result in extremely low blood sugar levels. This is healthy for a person with no medical conditions, however, it might cause serious issues for people with diabetes if the diet is not properly planned and administered along with insulin.
Can a Ketogenic Diet Cause Ketoacidosis?
One of the reasons it is recommended to consult an expert for your keto diet plan is to avoid the adverse impact it might have due you a medical condition you have.
- Ketoacidosis occurs as a result of dangerously elevated levels of ketone production in the body.
- People with type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk for ketoacidosis. A low carb diet such as a ketogenic diet along with poor management of type one diabetes can result in ketoacidosis.
What is the Difference Between Paleo, Keto and Atkins Diet?
Although all of the mentioned diet plans are low-carb, these are definitely not the same, listed below is how Atkins and Paleo are different from a ketogenic diet;
- Unlike keto, the Atkins diet does not limit your intake of protein. It also takes into account the net carb.
- The paleo or caveman diet focuses more on the quality of the food you consume. The aim is to adopt the same eating habits as our ancestors by giving up on processed food and adding more fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and fats to our daily diet plan.
A ketogenic diet might help you shed those extra pounds off, but you have to be very consistent in following it.