Definition
A ketogenic diet is an extremely low-carb, high-fat diet that forces the body to burn ketones for fuel instead of glucose.
Explanation
- Typically under 50g daily carbs or 10% of calories, increased fat intake, and adequate protein puts the body into nutritional ketosis.
- Ketosis occurs when limited carbs causes the liver to break down fat into ketone bodies for energy instead of carbs.
- Benefits include weight loss, reduced hunger, improved type 2 diabetes factors, and enhanced mental focus. But it’s difficult to sustain long-term.
- Potential side effects include bad breath, fatigue, constipation, nutrient deficiencies, and low blood sugar. Monitor your response.
Examples
- Consuming an avocado bacon omelet cooked in olive oil on a low-carb diet.
- Adding MCT oil or exogenous ketones to coffee to increase ketone levels.
Related Terms
- Ketosis, macronutrients ratios, low-carb diets, Atkins diet
Common Questions
- How long does it take to get into ketosis? Usually 3-7 days of restricting carbs under 50g daily.
- Is the keto diet healthy long-term? It has risks and should be cycled with periods of higher carbs.
Do Not Confuse With
- Low fat diet – Ketogenic diet is very high in fat, low in carbs instead.
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