The ketogenic diet, also known as keto, is currently one of the most popular diets. It is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that asks you to eat large amounts of fat and moderate amounts of protein, while carbohydrates are cut back to a minimum. The aim of the diet is to move the body into a state of ketosis, in which fat serves as the main source of energy instead of carbohydrates.
The history of the ketogenic diet goes back to antiquity, when it was used in the management of various health problems, such as epilepsy. It is only in recent years, though, that it has become popular as a way of losing weight.
How does the ketogenic diet work?
Under normal circumstances carbohydrates are the main source of energy for our bodies. Fat serves as the reserve. When we eat few carbohydrates and a lot of fat, however, the body shifts into ketosis and begins to burn fat as its main source of energy. That is how the diet is intended to reduce body fat.
In practice, in terms of total daily macronutrient intake, that looks like this:
- 75 % fat
- 20 % protein
- only 5 % carbohydrates.
In research, keto has been associated with lower body fat and with people reporting better mood and performance, and it is also being studied in connection with a number of health conditions, including diabetes and neurological disorders. These are associations reported in studies rather than proven effects, and the diet is not a treatment for any illness.
Even so, it is important to weigh the drawbacks as well. Some people may experience fatigue, headaches, greater dehydration and even worse digestion as a result of the lack of carbohydrates. On top of that, a shortage of carbohydrates may be accompanied by a loss of muscle mass, because in some circumstances the body can use muscle as an energy source too.
And the key point: a low-carbohydrate diet is often hard to stick to, because it restricts your food choices. Many people can feel frustrated that they cannot eat their favourite foods. The transition period is complicated further by the fact that you may feel short of energy. The body has not yet adapted to burning fat and is running an energy deficit because of the low carbohydrate intake.
It carries risks
The ketogenic diet may even be harmful for some groups of people, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and people with certain health conditions. That is why you should talk to your doctor before deciding to switch to this diet.
Keto may be an effective way to lose weight. As with every diet, it is important to weigh up both the advantages and the disadvantages. Before you decide to switch, consider the possible consequences. It is worth remembering that no diet suits everyone across the board, and a good diet should be balanced and adapted to your individual needs.
Be careful with supplements containing ketones as well, because many are not regulated and may contain unknown or harmful ingredients. The best way to reach ketosis is to eat a well-composed, nutritious diet and keep to a low intake of carbohydrates and protein.
There is one exception, though
There is one product that is very easy to work into your day. It can help you build ketones sooner, so you can avoid the problems that come with long fasting or a sudden drop in carbohydrate intake. That solution is a good-quality MCT oil. It is a specially extracted oil that the body digests easily, which makes it a quick source of energy for body and brain.
Our MCT oils have a clean composition and are 100 % of coconut origin. Powerlogy BIO MCT Oil contains the efficient medium-chain triglycerides C8 and C10. It is ideal for supplying energy to muscles and brain alike. Premium Powerlogy C8 MCT Oil is made up only of caprylic acid (C8), which the body converts into ketones particularly readily. It will keep you going while studying or during demanding work — productivity in a single sip.
How best to use MCT oil?
- In coffee with butter or collagen.
- As a replacement for less suitable plant and animal fats in your diet.
- In smoothies and shakes for steadier energy.
- In salads and dressings instead of ordinary oils.
Try C8 MCT oil with other KETO foods
Fats are the foundation of every keto menu, and C8 MCT oil and ghee butter cover that in organic quality. As a delicious, lightly salted snack with no added sugar, reach for organic almond cream. And who said there is no keto-friendly bar? Our collagen and protein bar is there for you when you need to top up energy and important nutrients.
Find out more
Conclusion and recommendations
No diet is a miracle. That is why it matters to keep a whole-picture, healthy lifestyle. That includes regular movement, enough sleep and stress management. A good diet and a healthy lifestyle are the key to feeling well in the long run, and quality food supplements can play their part.
Do remember that fast, dramatic weight loss is neither healthy nor sustainable. Healthy, lasting weight loss should be gradual and go hand in hand with changes in lifestyle. If keto is right for you, MCT oil can help a great deal when introduced gradually. It smooths out sudden energy swings and supports you through the transition period, when your body is temporarily missing the carbohydrates it was used to.
Decided to go for the keto diet? Read the detailed, study-backed information in this article.
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