Keto. Fad diet or Lifestyle?
Along with all the “Fad” or “Trend” Diets emerging, Keto is one that is part of that list. “Keto” is short for “Ketosis” which is the state you are putting your body in, hence the name. Known for significant weight loss and a form of healthy eating, but should we practice it daily?
To answer that question first, you must understand what you are doing to your body. To reach Ketosis, you must only ingest near 50 grams of carbohydrates a day. That action causes your body to burn off excess fat as a source of fuel. Instead of what you have eaten for Carbs that day. This leads to fast weight loss when it is first practiced. Sounds simple enough, however, the hard part is now figuring out what you can eat.
Ultimately, you are switching Carbs as a source of fuel and replacing it with fat. The foods that you can eat put into two words are meat and vegetables. These foods include Eggs, Seafood, Beef, Nuts, Kale, Spinach, Broccoli, and various Berries. One way to help put people in the mindset and help them find and plan meals with these restrictions is to envision yourself in the Paleolithic Period. There are many products on the market that also label themselves “Keto Friendly”. If you have any doubts on what to eat, just read the nutritional label and see the Carbohydrate count. Also, keep track of what you have had as far as Carbs for that day.
The question now arises, “Is this way of eating healthy long term?” Effects of maintaining this diet long term include weight loss and maintenance, supports blood sugar, being rich in micronutrients, promotes heart health, reduces inflammation, and affects your athletic performance. There are many others you could find upon your own research, I am sure. Overall, the answer is yes.
Getting personal, I underwent Keto for a month out of my own curiosity. Except for three “cheat days”. I lost 20lbs. Some things I found to be a positive effect was I was less tired around lunch time. No longer did I have the midday sluggish feeling that would normally require a cup of coffee. I was more alert. I found it easy to remain focused and on task during the days. With anything, although you have negatives. I would not fall asleep easily as I did previously. Being that you are in a way “Starving” yourself. Also, I lost muscle mass as a result in my caloric intake being reduced significantly. Both were small compared to the positive effects of the diet.
In conclusion, if you are looking to lose weight fast, Keto will definitely do that. If you are looking for a healthy diet change to be in overall good health (No longer eating manufactured Carbs, and sugary snacks) all the better! Although everyone’s body is different. In the way their metabolism breaks down food, and how they react to the diet. My personal suggestion is to try it for a week (Minimum to see results) or talk with your personal doctor and ask if it would be a good idea for the person you are. I think the goal that everyone has is to be healthy and feel good when they see themselves in the mirror.
Thank you for taking the time to read my work.
