The ketogenic diet (also referred to as the keto diet) is a popular, low carb diet. The diet is low carb, moderate protein, and high fat, all of which puts the body into a metabolic state known as ketosis.
When the body is in ketosis, the liver produces ketones which become the main energy source for the body.
How it Works
When you eat foods which are high in carbs, your body produces glucose and insulin. Glucose is quickly and easily converted into energy, and the body chooses this energy source first. Insulin helps process the glucose in your bloodstream, transporting it through the body.
Because glucose is being used as your body’s main source of energy, fat isn’t needed, so it’s stored in the body. When you lower your intake of carbs, your body is induced into a state known as ketosis. During the process, ketones are produced as the liver breaks down fats, rather than storing these fats.
When you increase the fat in the body and take away carbohydrates, the body burns ketones as your primary energy source. When your body maintains optimal ketone levels, you’ll reap the keto benefits both mentally and physically. Studies show that not only can the keto diet help you lose weight, it can also be beneficial for certain cancers, diabetes, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and other diseases.
Foods to Eat on the Keto Diet
On the keto diet, you will want to eat nutritious foods like shellfish, salmon, and other seafood. Vegetables are low in carbohydrates and can be the perfect substitution for higher carbohydrate foods. For example, you can substitute cauliflower for mashed potatoes or pizza crust, and zucchini can be used in place of pasta noodles.
Cheese is a great choice on the keto diet, too, as are eggs, meat, poultry, and Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. Add coconut oil and olive oil to your cooking, and snack on nuts and seeds.
All of these foods will add variety to your diet and help keep your body in ketosis.
