What is a ketogenic diet?
Despite the recent excitement, a ketogenic diet is not new. Even though it was used many years before, in the 1970’s Dr Atkins popularised his low carb diet to support weight loss.
What is a ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet is one that causes the body to release ketones into the bloodstream. The occurs 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 which are substances that are made when the body breaks down fat for energy
Generally, a ketone diet is rich in proteins and fats because it lacks carbohydrates. This diet typically includes plenty of eggs, processed meats, poultry, cheeses, fish, butter, oils, nuts, seeds. A strong negative to this diet is that many people tend to eat too much protein with very few fruits, grains and vegetables. A good example of this type of diet is the paleo diet. Those with kidney disease need to be cautious as this type of diet could worsen their condition.
Weight loss is the primary reason people use the ketogenic diet with good results. In the short term, a ketogenic diet also has been shown to improve blood sugar control for patients with type 2 diabetes.
If you're healthy and eating a balanced diet, your body can control how much fat it burns, and therefore you won’t need to make or use ketones. However, if you cut back on your calories or carbs, your body will switch to ketosis for energy. This can also happen after exercising for a long period of time. For people with diabetes that is uncontrolled, ketosis is a sign of not using enough insulin.
When ketones build up, ketosis can become dangerous. High levels can lead to dehydration as well as change the chemical balance of your blood.
Always consult your health care professional if you would like to follow the ketogenic diet.
