The Keto Diet
Potential Benefits Explained Simply
The keto diet has taken the world by storm, but what exactly are its benefits? Read our simple guide below.
What is the Keto Diet?
It's an eating plan that focuses on high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carb foods. By drastically reducing carbs, your body enters a state called ketosis, where it starts burning fat for energy instead of glucose (sugar from carbs).
Potential Benefits:
Weight Loss: Studies show that the keto diet can lead to significant weight loss, often exceeding results from traditional low-fat diets. This is partly due to reduced appetite and increased fat burning.
Improved Blood Sugar Control: The keto diet can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels by lowering insulin resistance.
Reduced Heart Disease Risk: While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that the keto diet may improve certain heart disease markers, like lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while raising good cholesterol (HDL).
Potential Benefits for Brain Health: Early research suggests the keto diet might be helpful in managing certain neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
The ketogenic diet has a surprisingly long history in treating epilepsy, dating back to the early 1920s. This makes it one of the oldest and most established dietary therapies for the condition.
Reduced inflammation- which plays a crucial role in many diseases including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Though more research is needed, both animal and human studies have shown positive results.
Improved Energy Production: Ketones may enhance mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial health plays a crucial role in overall health and well-being. These tiny organelles, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of cells, are responsible for generating most of the cellular energy (ATP) needed for various bodily functions.
Important Points to Remember:
Consulting a healthcare professional before starting the keto diet is crucial, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
The keto diet may not be suitable for everyone, and some people might experience side effects like fatigue, headaches, and constipation in the initial stages.
Maintaining a healthy and balanced keto diet with high-quality fats, adequate protein, and essential vitamins and minerals is essential for long-term success. It is very important to consider the foods making up your fats, proteins and carbs on a keto diet. Plant foods and healthy fats like olives, olive oil, avocados and coconut should be utilised in place of animal fats as much as possible.
The Bottom Line:
The keto diet has the potential to offer many health benefits, particularly for metabolic health, weight loss, blood sugar control and brain health. However, it's crucial to approach it with caution, seek professional guidance, and prioritize a balanced and sustainable approach.
Interested in trying the keto diet? Get in touch for a free chat.