The keto diet depletes the body of its sugar reserves, causing it to break down fat for energy. It may help people lose weight, manage acne, and improve heart health, among other benefits. But, there may be some risks.
The keto diet is an eating plan that focuses on foods that provide a lot of healthful fats, adequate amounts of protein, and very few carbohydrates. The goal is to get more calories from fat than from carbs.
The diet works by depleting the body of its sugar reserves. As a result, it will start to break down fat for energy. This results in the production of molecules called ketones that the body uses for fuel. When the body burns fats, it can also lead to weight loss.
There are several types of keto diet, including the Standard Ketogenic Diet and the Cyclical Ketogenic Diet.
In this article, we explain the benefits of the keto diet, as well as its risks.
1. Supports weight loss
The ketogenic diet may help promote weight loss in several ways, including boosting metabolism and reducing appetite. By consuming high amounts of healthful fats and protein, and very little carbohydrates, the body is forced to break down fat for energy, which may result in weight loss.
2. Improves acne
Evidence suggests that following a diet high in processed and refined carbohydrates may negatively impact skin health. By following a ketogenic diet that is rich in healthful fats, adequate amounts of protein, and low in carbohydrates, some individuals may see an improvement in their acne.
3. May reduce risk of certain cancers
Research has shown that a ketogenic diet may have potential benefits in helping to prevent or even treat certain cancers by causing more oxidative stress in cancerous cells than in normal cells.
4. May improve heart health
Choosing healthful foods on the ketogenic diet, such as avocados and nuts, may help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that individuals on a ketogenic diet may experience a significant drop in levels of total cholesterol, LDL, or bad cholesterol, and triglycerides, and an increase in HDL, or good cholesterol.
5. May protect brain function
Studies have suggested that the production of ketones during the ketogenic diet may provide neuroprotective benefits, potentially protecting against conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
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