The ketogenic diet, also known as the keto diet, is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that has gained popularity in recent years for its potential benefits in weight loss and improving certain health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and epilepsy. The main idea behind the keto diet is to drastically reduce carbohydrate intake and increase the consumption of fats, which puts the body into a metabolic state called ketosis.
When you follow the keto diet, you restrict your carbohydrate intake to about 20-50 grams per day, which is significantly lower than the recommended intake of 225-325 grams per day for an average adult. By doing so, your body is forced to switch from using glucose (sugar) as its primary source of energy to using ketones, which are produced by the liver from fats.
To achieve ketosis, you need to consume a high amount of fat, moderate protein, and low-carbohydrate diet. A typical ketogenic diet consists of about 75% fat, 20% protein, and only 5% carbohydrates. This way of eating makes the body burn fat for fuel, which leads to weight loss and can also help with reducing insulin levels, blood sugar, and inflammation.
However, it's important to note that the keto diet may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions such as liver or pancreatic disease, or individuals taking certain medications. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting the keto diet or any significant dietary changes.
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