What Is The Ketosis Diet Plan?
Most human beings get their energy levels from blood glucose. However, diabetes and alcoholism may cause a metabolic state known as “ketosis,” in which ketone bodies (also found in the blood) provide the basis for energy.
Another way to invoke ketosis is via means of a diet very low in calorific intake. Doctors may recommend such a diet as a form of treatment for epileptic children (severe cases), but many people who are interested in weight loss may also choose to follow the ketosis diet.
The medical opinions on the safety of deliberately following the diet for weight loss purposes vary, and the subject is considered controversial in some circles. However, for every naysayer, there are many more who swear by the benefits of the ketosis (or keto) diet.
How It Works
Low in carbs, high in healthy fats and sufficient in proteins, the ketosis diet forcibly induces your body into a state of ketosis. Aside from the medical reasons for ketosis mentioned above, it should be noted that during starvation, the body naturally initiates ketosis, which helps to keep you alive.
Contrary to many low-calorie diets, ketosis deprives the body of excess carbohydrates. Carbs are often the source of excess weight gain; people tend to crave carbs and over-indulge on them, causing themselves to pack on the pounds. The ketosis diet pushes the body into fat-burning mode, while still allowing it to function. During this diet, you will consume less than 15 grams or 0.5oz of carbs a day (less than half the typical amount consumed in a normal diet).
What To Eat And What To Avoid
Since the bulk of carbohydrates comes from fruit, starchy foods like beans and potatoes, in addition to pasta and cereal as well as bread, you need to limit yourself to dark greens, vegetables and other sources of protein and fats: poultry, steak, cheese, nut butters, seeds, nuts, etc.
When purchasing groceries, research about the carbohydrate count on each and every item, including vegetables. While vegetables are generally low in carbs, they still have some! Remember, you want to keep your carb intake under 15 grams a day, so be sure to portion out your meals carefully.
Benefits Of The Ketosis Diet
- Reduces acne in 3 months
- Drops cholesterol levels
- Eliminates Type 2 Diabetes
- Increases energy levels
- Alleviates hunger with the increased fat intake, so you eat less
- Helps you lose weight by allowing you to use up fat stores and essentially lets your body “fast” while still consuming foods on a daily basis
Should You Try It?
The ketosis diet has a lot going for it, but it is not for everyone. There are many reasons to follow it, and other, valid medical reasons why you might want to look into other options. It is important when venturing into any weight loss program or plan to be sure you understand exactly what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, and whether or not it will actually benefit you and your needs.