These days, you can’t go anywhere without hearing about the ketogenic diet. Celebs like Kourtney Kardashian and Halle Berry have done it, Pinterest is flooded with recipe ideas for it, and #keto has been used more than 6 million times on Instagram. There’s definitely something behind all the hype. But weight loss aside, is it actually a healthy way to live?
The premise of going keto is straight forward: eat moderate amounts of protein, increase fat consumption, and reduce carb intake. On this plan you should only have 20 to 50 grams of carbs daily.
The science behind it: carbohydrates that come from sugary foods and starches are converted into glucose, which our bodies naturally burn for energy. But when you bring carb consumption down, your body is forced to find a new fuel source so it turns the stored fat into molecules called ketone bodies and uses them for energy instead resulting in weight loss.
Doctors have used the ketogenic diet to treat children with epilepsy in the 1920s. It was found to help control seizures especially for kids on anti seizure medications. Keto is now recommended for brain related reasons. It’s been found to increase alertness and improve cognitive function. It is suspected that this boost may come from a combination of energy packed ketones and a reduction of sleep inducing carbohydrates.
This super restrictive regimen is not suggested for pregnant or breastfeeding women and anyone who suffers from gallbladder or liver conditions. It is wise to check with a doctor before starting this diet plan.
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