It’s been about 2 years since I was introduced to Keto diet and began to experience and understand it’s benefits. I went in and out of Keto a few times to experiment and learn the workings of this lifestyle. I think that the Keto diet can come across as extreme and is not for everybody, however I have decided to get back on the horse and give it a longer run this time. The number one thing I love about this diet is the amount of sustainable energy it gives me throughout the day. Even though my earn your carbs diet has already been giving me plenty of energy to begin with, it’s still nothing in comparison to being on Keto. It feels like you have more clarity and you feel fresh the entire day, no matter how hard you work. This is the most important reason for me right now, because I have a lot going on and I need to be 100% focused on my work.  I can use the extra energy, especially now during the summer when the heat slows me down, I’m excited to turn on the highly efficient fat burning mode and boost my metabolism.

What is a Ketogenic Diet?

The most simple way to describe this diet/lifestyle, a ketogenic diet causes the body’s liver to produce ketone bodies, which results in utilizing fat instead of glucose as a primary source of energy. Restriction of carbs is necessary in order to trigger the ketone bodies production, and the amount of carbs should not exceed 20g a day. The ratio of Fat vs Protein and Carbs is very important.

Generally, the macronutrient ratio varies within the following ranges:

What are the major benefits of Ketogenic Diet?

1. Improvement in sustainable energy production – no more blood sugar crashes that you experience when your body uses glucose as a main source of energy.

2. Decrease in insulin levels – this results in a rapid breakdown of fatty acids. When insulin levels are high as a result of high carb diet, the body’s ability to break down fatty acids is being compromised. Low levels of insulin also supports the release of many useful hormones associated with muscle growth.

3. Reduction of appetite – proteins and fats are quite filling and the ketones somehow seem to negate the sensations that come with cravings.

4. No more water retention – the foods the you eat have diuretic effect on the body. Lowered insulin levels will allow the kidneys to excrete the excess of sodium and promote fast water weight loss.

5. Rapid increase of fat loss – As your body is burning fat as the main source of energy, the metabolism is activated to burn even the most stubborn abdominal fat.

6. Say goodbye to the foggy brain – a diet that is rich in carbs provides too much glucose for he brain, causing it to become foggy and your cognitive functions to be impaired. The Keto diet will help you to think clear and your brain working at it’s full capacity.

7. Better sleep – reduced symptoms related to sleep apnea. No more daytime sleepiness or naps during the day.

8. Oral health – diet rich in carbs often leads to cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. Ketogenic diet improves the oral pH, protecting against oral health issues.

9. No more muscle stiffness or joint pain – Also, if you’ve been wanting to get more flexible, to improve your yoga practice, this diet is going to give you the advantage that you need. Diets that are rich in carbs are known to contribute to stiff muscles and inflammation in joints.

10. Better skin – Recent studies have shown a drop in acne lesions and skin inflammation over 12 weeks.

Here’s a great interview with a  lot of information:

There are a lot more benefits to this diet than disadvantages. The first few days (sometimes weeks) can be hard due to “metabolic shift”, if you stick to the rules and avoid the common mistakes however, it can be a very smooth transition. It’s not a diet for everyone since it’s quite strict and can be difficult for some people to adhere to. The only real problem is the risk of developing ketoacidocis – but that’s not a concern if you’re not diabetic.  A non-diabetic body keeps the blood sugar and ketone production levels under tight control.

I’ve started my Keto diet a few days ago and will be sharing with you my journey, including recipes and how to jump start the Ketogenic diet and sail smoothly through the transition.