Keto Diet

Overview

This is a low-carbohydrate diet that stresses the importance of eating fats. It can help people lose weight. And losing extra weight improves your health.

How does it work?

How does it work? Well, the keto diet changes the type of fuel your body uses for energy. Normally, your body fuels itself with sugars that come from the carbohydrates you eat. But when you're on the keto diet, you won't be eating enough carbs to get these sugars. So, your body begins to break down its own fat cells instead. Your liver uses these fat cells to make chemicals called "ketone bodies," which your body burns for fuel. When your body makes the switch from sugars to ketone bodies, we say you are in a state of "ketosis."

Meal Planning

The keto diet is designed to help your body reach and maintain this state of ketosis. To do this, you'll need to eat foods high in fats. Saturated fats from oils, lard and butter are encouraged. You'll also need protein, which you can get from things like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. But you'll eat very few carbs. Fruits and vegetables are high in carbs, so you'll need to restrict the amount of fruit you eat. And your vegetable choices are mostly restricted to leafy greens.

Conclusion

Following a keto diet can have positive benefits. But it may not be safe for everyone. So talk to your doctor to find out if it's right for you.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.