What exactly is a ketogenic diet?
The keto diet is low on carbs, moderate on protein and high in fats. The idea is to fine-tune nutritional intake in order to send the body into the metabolic state known as ketosis.
When the body no longer has stores of glycogen to fuel its energy needs ,this is how the body enters the state of ketosis. With sugar out of the way, the body has no choice but to tap its stores of fat to get by. The liver converts fat reserves into ketones which offers the body a new energy source. This is why the keto diet is a good way to lose fat.
Some benefits of the keto diet
Weight loss
Weight loss is the primary goal of a keto diet. It works because it makes the body look to its fat reserves to power its metabolism.
When the body is deprived of carbs, it enters a state of ketosis. Blood sugar and insulin levels fall when that happens. As the body taps into the energy in fat cells, they release substantial quantities of water,this is how the weight loss is triggered. The fat cells are then able to enter the bloodstream and make their way to the liver, where they are turned into ketones for energy processing. As long as you can stay in a caloric deficit, you will get to enjoy the benefits of weight loss.
You feel more energetic
When you are on a regular diet, your body is always on the verge of running out of energy. You need to constantly eat and refuel. With a keto diet, however, the body taps into its fat reserves, a nearly endless energy supply. The body, then, is able to maintain constant energy levels throughout the day. The result is, you end up feeling a lot more energetic
It takes the edge off your appetite
When your diet has minimal carbs, you’ll find that your food cravings are considerably less than before. People who have tried keto are simply not as hungry and are able to fast most of the day, and only eat at mealtimes.
Improved ability to focus
With regular diets, carbs are put into the body, your brain has to deal with the rise and fall in sugar levels. Inconsistent energy levels can make it hard for the brain to focus. With the keto diet, however, the energy source is constant and consistent, which makes it easier for the brain to stay focused.
It helps you fight diabetes
When you suffer from Type II diabetes, your body experiences high levels of insulin. Since the keto diet takes excess sugar from your diet, it helps stabilize HbA1c counts, and helps to reverse Type II diabetes.
Improved levels of good cholesterol
HDL cholesterol helps get rid of the body’s bad cholesterol reserves. When you’re on keto, your body’s triglyceride levels fall and your HDL cholesterol levels rise.
Better blood pressure
The keto diet helps to drop your blood pressure. Many people on the keto diet find that they are able to stop taking blood pressure medicine altogether.
The keto diet can be a life changing experience. It isn’t a difficult diet to get on, either. There are plenty of great recipes for the keto diet. All it takes is the willingness to give it a go.