What the heck is a "keto" diet?

"The Keto Diet: What it is and How it Works"

The keto diet, short for ketogenic diet, is a high-fat, low-carb diet that has been gaining popularity in recent years. The idea behind the keto diet is to get the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.

The standard American diet is high in carbohydrates, which the body uses as its primary source of energy. But when you drastically reduce your intake of carbs and increase your intake of fat, your body enters a state of ketosis. In this state, your body starts to burn fat for energy instead of carbs. This leads to weight loss and a host of other health benefits.

The keto diet is typically made up of 70-75% fat, 20-25% protein, and 5-10% carbohydrates. Some of the foods allowed on the keto diet include:

• Meat and poultry

• Fish and seafood

• Eggs

• Low-carb vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli

• Nuts and seeds

• Healthy oils such as olive oil and avocado oil

• Dairy products like cheese and heavy cream

On the other hand, foods that are not allowed on the keto diet include:

• Grains and cereals

• Sugars and sweeteners

• Most fruits

• Starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn

• Legumes such as beans and lentils

• Most processed foods

It's important to note that the Keto diet can be difficult to follow and may not be suitable for everyone. It's also important to consult with a doctor before starting a new diet and make sure to get enough nutrients, especially when it comes to vegetables and fruits.

In conclusion, the keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that aims to get the body into a state of ketosis. By drastically reducing carbs and increasing fat intake, the body starts to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. It can be an effective weight loss tool, but it's important to consult with a doctor and make sure to get enough nutrients.