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## Let's talk Keto and Carbs

The ketogenic diet, or keto as it's popularly known, is indeed a very low-carb diet. But what does that really mean? Let's dive into the specifics:

Understanding Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients our bodies need, alongside fats and proteins. They are our primary source of energy. When we consume carbs, our bodies break them down into glucose (sugar), which enters our bloodstream and fuels our cells.

The Ketogenic Shift

The keto diet drastically reduces carbohydrate intake, typically to less than 50 grams per day. To give you a comparison, a standard dietary recommendation allows for 225-325 grams of carbs daily.

This severe restriction forces your body to enter a metabolic state called ketosis. Without sufficient glucose from carbs, your body starts breaking down stored fat into molecules called ketones, which become its primary fuel source. This shift from glucose to ketones is the hallmark of the keto diet.

Why So Low-Carb?

The significant carb restriction is essential for achieving and maintaining ketosis. Even small amounts of carbs can prevent your body from efficiently utilizing fat for energy.

Typical Keto Macros

While carb intake is significantly limited, the keto diet emphasizes:

* High Fat Intake: This makes up the majority of your daily calories (around 70-80%) and provides the energy your body needs in the absence of carbs.
* Moderate Protein Intake: Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, but too much can be converted into glucose, potentially hindering ketosis.

Foods Allowed and Restricted

* Foods to Enjoy: Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil), meat, poultry, fish, eggs, non-starchy vegetables.
* Foods to Avoid: Sugary foods and drinks, grains (bread, pasta, rice), starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn), most fruits (except small portions of berries).

Keto and You

While the keto diet can be effective for weight loss and managing certain health conditions, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any drastic dietary changes. They can help determine if keto is right for you, create a personalized plan, and monitor your progress.

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A keto diet is well known for being a low carb diet, where the body produces ketones in the liver to be used as energy. It's referred to as many different names -C ketogenic diet, low carb diet, low carb high fat (LCHF), etc. When you eat something high in carbs, your body will produce glucose and insulin.read more >>