A keto diet is a low-carb diet that results in ketosis. This means that the body is using fat as its primary source of energy instead of carbohydrates. To achieve this, the diet has to be very low in carbohydrates and high in dietary fat, with a moderate amount of proteins. This may seem counterintuitive, as we have been taught that fat is bad for us, but the keto diet has been gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits.
How Does it Work?
The keto diet involves depleting your body of carbs and forcing it to break down fat for energy. This is achieved by drastically reducing your carbohydrate intake and increasing your fat intake. By doing so, your body enters a metabolic state called ketosis, where it starts producing ketones to use as energy instead of glucose.
Why is Ketosis Important?
Ketosis is a normal metabolic process, something your body does to keep working. When it doesn't have enough carbohydrates from food for your cells to burn for energy, it burns fat instead. As part of this process, it makes ketones. These ketones can provide energy for the brain and body, making them an efficient source of fuel.
What to Expect on a Keto Diet
It will take a few days or weeks to feel your absolute best on keto. During this time, you may experience symptoms of carbohydrate withdrawal, such as headaches, fatigue, and irritability. This is because your body is adjusting to using fat as its primary source of energy. However, once you become fat-adapted, you'll find that you won't crave carbs as much anymore.