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If you’ve been trying to lose weight or improve your health, you’ve probably heard of the ketogenic diet. This type of diet is known for helping people shed fat quickly, reduce cravings, and maintain long-term weight loss success.
But for anyone new to the ketogenic diet, getting started can seem like a daunting prospect. Here’s a quick guide on what the keto diet is, how to follow it, the benefits associated with it, and more. Read on to learn the basics and everything you need to know to begin your journey to successful keto dieting.
What is the Keto Diet?
A ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is one that focuses on high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating. This specific style of eating prompts the body to enter a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body burns fat as its primary fuel source instead of carbohydrates.
In order for the body to enter ketosis, you must consume fewer than 50g of carbs each day, typically 30-50g of carbs or less. Additionally, a ketogenic diet typically consists of moderate amounts of high-quality protein and high amounts of beneficial fats, such as olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil.
Finally, a typical keto diet will include plenty of nutrient-dense, low-carbohydrate vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
The Benefits of the Keto Diet
The keto diet is a highly effective way to lose fat and improve overall health. Studies suggest that following a ketogenic diet can reduce body fat mass, improve metabolic health, reduce hunger, minimize cravings, and improve cognitive function.
These benefits of the keto diet are attributed to many factors, including its ability to boost metabolism, curb hunger hormones, and supply the body with an abundance of healthy fats and nutrients.
Getting Started with the Keto Diet
Now that you understand what a ketogenic diet is and the potential benefits, it’s time to learn how to get started. Follow these steps to begin your keto diet journey.
- Step 1: Calculate your macros. A macro-nutrient calculator can help you figure out the number of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that are optimal for your specific goals.
- Step 2: Start tracking your food intake. This will help you ensure that you’re eating the right amounts of carbs, fats, and proteins to keep your body in ketosis.
- Step 3: Remove all unhealthy foods from your house. Stocking your kitchen with keto-friendly foods can help you stay on track.
- Step 4: Make sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals. Taking a daily multivitamin supplement may be beneficial, but be sure to speak with your doctor before beginning any vitamin regimen.
- Step 5: Get support. Joining a keto Diet forum or support group can also help ensure your success.
Final Thoughts
Getting started with a ketogenic diet can be intimidating, but it’s also exciting. By following a few simple steps, you can improve your health, lose weight, and make strides towards long-term success in no time.
Remember to always speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian before attempting any new diet regimen.