Jennifer Gault
What in the world is a Keto Diet?
Turn on the TV or open a magazine, and you’re sure to see some trace, mention, or murmur of it. Particularly at this time of the year.
We are just two weeks into the start of 2019, and the will to accomplish goals burns inside our bellies. Determined and motivated. And according to statics from Inc.com, we are hell-bent on eating healthier.
The top New Year’s resolution of 2019 revolves around dieting. 71% of us want to eat well and get in shape.
And the Keto Diet has become a popular way to do so.
What is the Keto Diet?
Dr. Gianfranco Cappello created the Keto (short for Ketogenic) diet at the Sapienza University in Rome, Italy.
It is a low carb diet that pushes your body into a state of ketosis.
Ketosis is a metabolic state where the body burns fats as fuel instead of carbohydrates (due to a lack of carbs in the body). Mostly, the body is finding a new energy source and helping you lose weight in the process.
Do you think you’d like to try out Keto? Well, you’re in luck, industry leader PerfectKeto is now offering coupons on a wide range of products. We encourage you to give them a try and see if it’s a diet that suits you.
Photo:annapelzer/ Unsplash
Often the keto diet is referred to as a low carb high-fat diet.
What You Eat:
The majority of calories your body will consume on a keto diet come from healthy fats. The rest will come from fruits, veggies, meat, and fish.
1. Low Carb, Non-Starchy Vegetables
Brussel Sprouts, Spinach, Kale, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Asparagus, Zucchini, Peppers
2. Seafood
Salmon, Mussels, Octopus, Oysters, Squid, Clams, Atlantic Mackerel, Sardines
3. Cheese
Cheese tends to be very high in fat and generally low in carbs. Making it a good fit for the keto diet. Try: Feta, Goat Cheese, Blue Cheese, Mozzarella, Cheddar, Ricotta, Parmesan, Provolone
4. Berries
Low in carbs and high in fiber. Berries are great for the digestive system and loaded with healthy antioxidants. Try: Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, Strawberries
5. Nuts & Seeds
Nuts are very high in fat, so eat them in moderation and be careful not to overindulge. Try: Almonds, Cashews, Brazil Nuts, Macadamia Nuts, Walnuts, Pecans, Pumpkin Seeds, Sunflower Seeds
6. Meat & Poultry
These staple foods for the keto diet. Not to say those with plant-based lifestyles can’t partake, it just happens that meat and poultry are excellent sources of proteins for this low carb eating plan.
7. Avocado
It is one of the world’s healthiest foods. Filled with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, this berry (and yes, it is considered a berry) is a high source of healthy fats.
8. Eggs
Healthy and versatile. Eggs are low in carbs but high in protein. They contain healthy nutrients and have been proven to increase the feeling of fullness, as well as maintain stable blood sugar levels.
9. Oils
Both Coconut & Olive Oil are great for your heart, hair, and skin. They are a pure source of fat and fabulous to use as salad dressings or to cook food.
10. Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Powder
That’s right. You get to eat chocolate! But not just any kind… healthy cocoa: dark chocolate. It’s a bittersweet high source of fat, filled with powerful antioxidants.
11. Coffee & Tea
The caffeine is an excellent boost to your metabolism, and both coffee and tea are low to no-carb beverages. But NO sugar, please! You can add cream if you wish, but high-carb and high sugar flavorings are a no go.
Photo: @markuswinkler/ Unsplash
Benefits of the Keto Diet
Studies have shown, benefits of the Keto Diet helps dieters lose weight fast. There appear to be few side effects, and for the most part, people can keep the weight off while they stick to the plan.
Risks and Dangers
Some critics fear the risks and dangers of the keto diet may only work short term.
Another concern is that the diet may cause a loss of muscle and lead to a feeling of fatigue.
If you are an athlete or bodybuilder trying to bulk up, this may not be the best diet for you.
As always, before starting a new diet, contact your doctor to see if this eating plan will work for your body.
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