Obesity and metabolic diseases have become the world’s biggest health problems.
In fact, at least 2.8 million adults die from obesity-related causes each year.
Metabolic syndrome affects over 50 million people in the US, and can lead to a variety of health problems.
To combat this, many diets have emerged, few of which are actually backed by research.
The benefits of the ketogenic diet, on the other hand, are well-supported by science.
This article explains how a ketogenic diet can help you lose weight and fight metabolic disease.
What is a Ketogenic Diet?
A ketogenic diet is high in fat, moderate in protein and extremely low in carbs.
As carbs are reduced and fat is increased, the body enters a metabolic state called ketosis. Then the body starts turning fats into ketones, which are molecules that can supply energy for the brain.
After a few days or weeks on such a diet, the body and brain become very efficient at burning fat and ketones for fuel instead of carbs.
The ketogenic diet also lowers insulin levels. This, along with the increased ketones, are two of the main reasons this diet has so many health benefits.
Staple foods on a ketogenic diet include meat, fish, butter, eggs, cheese, heavy cream, oils, nuts, avocados, seeds and low-carb vegetables.
In contrast, nearly all carb sources are eliminated, including grains, rice, beans, potatoes, sweets, milk, cereals, fruits and even some higher-carb vegetables.