The Keto(genic) Diet

We’ve talked about fad diets and how to spot them. While the Ketogenic (Keto) diet is a true diet with a real purpose, weight loss is not that purpose. The Keto diet is a high fat, moderate protein, low carbohydrate diet. It was originally developed to help control the occurrence of seizures in epileptic children. With this diet, the body is forced to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. To get a better understanding of how this works, read my blog on fat burn. In addition to producing fat for energy, our livers will also make ketone bodies. These ketone bodies are used by the brain for energy. A high amount of the ketone bodies in the blood puts us in a state of ketosis. This state is what helps reduce the occurrence of seizures in epileptic patients, children especially.  When patients are on a ketogenic diet, they are followed closely by a team of health professionals.

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As stated before, the keto diet, was not designed to aid in weight loss. If you are considering attempting this diet as a form of weight loss, please seek medical advice before starting. Here are some of the negative effects of the diet:

  • Constipation
  • Increased risk of kidney stones
  • Fatigue/Tiredness
  • Muscle cramps

Going on a diet is not the best way to make lifestyle changes.  As a food relationship expert, I’d be happy to consult with you to find something that best fits your needs. Maybe a meal plan is not what you need. Let me help you sort things out so that you can achieve your goals in a way that is best for you. Send me an email or schedule a consultation. I’m waiting on you!

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