What Are the Pros and Cons of a Keto Diet?

Keto diets are very popular right now. This is a type of weight loss diet that has been taking off in homes across America, as well as with celebrities in the tabloids. While the long-term effects are still being studied, in the short term it has been shown to get results for those looking to lose weight.

The idea behind the keto diet is nothing new. Basically, it involves cutting out carbs in favor of a different form of energy. There are several diets that have similar principles, including Atkins and the South Beach diet. In this instance, carbs are substituted out in exchange for fat. Normally, our bodies reach for carbs as an easy and readily available energy source. Cutting the carbs puts the body in a state of ketosis, which forces it to burn fat for energy instead.

Some will take this idea to the extreme, going so far as to stir butter into their morning coffee instead of cream and sugar. If you’re thinking this isn’t a healthy long-term solution, well, you may be on to something. But this extreme example is often used in one phase of the diet, and there are several pros and cons to consider with a keto diet. And remember, every diet in Eau Claire, WI works best with natural and organic foods at its core:

• Weight loss: The keto diet wouldn’t be so popular if it didn’t work. Anecdotally, there are plenty of stories and examples of individuals losing weight on the keto diet. It also holds up scientifically, as our bodies will burn fat for energy in the absence of carbs. The extra fat included in a keto diet can help with hunger pangs or cravings as you adjust to it.

• Desk jockey fuel: While athletes and those who are very physically active on a daily basis need carbs for immediate and constant fuel, those who spend most of their day at a desk don’t require as many carbs for sustenance. Reducing carbs can help achieve the right balance for your energy output.

• Bad for heart health: While the reduction of carbs can generally be seen as a good thing for our health, the addition of fat may not be so healthy. An increase in consumption of red meat and foods high in saturated fat can raise cholesterol and lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

• Not enough sugar: The body and the brain both need sugar to function correctly, and we need some glucose in our bloodstream to make that happen. Since glucose comes from carbohydrates, cutting out high-carb foods like bread and sugar so quickly might make you feel like you’re running low on energy, or you might have trouble focusing at times.

No matter what the desired effects may be, any diet will be more effective by using fresh, organic and high-quality ingredients. To get the best natural and organic foods in Eau Claire, WI, pay a visit to Mother Nature’s Food today to check out our selection.

Categorised in: Health Tips