If you’re into health or a fitness enthusiast, you must come across hundreds of diets that claim to reduce your weight dramatically but seldom work. However, the world of fitness and weight loss is all praises for the ketogenic diets or keto diets in recent years. Keto diets have taken every health-conscious person by storm and are becoming more popular with every passing day. Many people have witnessed promising results with the help of ketogenic diets. Some have even adopted it as a lifestyle. But is keto for everyone? Let’s discuss how keto affects your body.
The ketogenic or keto diets derive their name from a state called ketosis, which means the breakdown of fat. The diet involves using fat as the primary energy source and calories while limiting carbs to a minimal amount. Doing so tricks your body into using fat as your primary fuel, and you start shedding pounds. The weight loss is often quick as compared to other diets. But what changes does your body experience besides the fat-burning mode?
Did you know that keto diets can improve acne? Probably not. Foods high in refined carbohydrates upset the natural balance of gut bacteria and cause spikes and falls in blood sugar levels. These alternating levels can be harmful to your skin. According to a study in 2012, reducing carb intake in ketogenic diets can reduce acne in some people.
Another study found out that ketogenic diets may be effective alongside chemotherapy and cancer treatments. Keto diets may cause more oxidative stress to the cancer cells and help treatments in killing them off. However, more studies are needed to support the potential benefits of this diet in cancer patients.
Keto diets also protect brain function. Yes! You heard that correctly. A review from 2019 suggests that ketones generated from this diet strengthen the nerve cells and protect your brain from conditions like Alzheimer’s. It has also been found to minimize the risk of seizures.
Consider watching this video to know more about exercise vs diet, which is more effective…
However, keto diets are not all bright and beneficial. There are some drawbacks as well. Keto diets usually involve Restricting carb intake to less than 50 grams per day. Drastically reducing carbohydrate intake can be a shock to your body. Your body starts using ketones instead of carbs, and you begin to experience flu-like symptoms. This is also known as the keto-flu. The symptoms of the keto-flu may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
You may also experience constipation issues. This is because your body develops dehydration and electrolyte imbalance while it adjusts to the new ketosis mechanisms. Therefore, people who use these diet plans are often advised to increase their water intake to prevent complications like stones and bowel issues. An altered electrolyte balance also puts you at a greater risk for cardiac problems.
High-fat foods in keto diets put you at a greater risk for developing kidney stones. Your urine and blood become more acidic and lead to higher excretion of calcium in your urine. If you have kidney problems, starting a keto diet is probably not such a great idea.
Lastly, if you don’t have a strong will, the keto diet isn’t for you as it will lead to yo-yo diet patterns that cause more harm to your body. Some other negative impacts include bad breath, irregular menstrual cycles, and sleep issues. So while keto is highly effective, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with pre-existing health conditions.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!