What is a KETOGENIC DIET? Bez kategorii
The ketogenic diet (also called the keto diet) is a nutritional plan that focuses on high fat intake, moderate protein intake, and low carbohydrate intake. In the keto diet, the body is forced into a state of ketosis, that is, the production of ketone bodies from fats as an alternative source of energy instead of glucose from carbohydrates.
In the keto diet, it is recommended to consume about 70-80% of calories from fat, 15-20% of calories from protein, and just 5-10% of calories from carbohydrates. Carbohydrate restriction keeps blood sugar levels stable, which has a positive effect on many aspects of health, including weight loss, inflammation reduction and blood glucose control.
The ketogenic diet can be used as a form of dietary therapy for certain diseases, such as epilepsy or Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is recommended that you consult your doctor and dietitian before starting a keto diet, as this diet can be difficult to maintain and may require special planning and supplementation.
What are KETONE BODIES?
Ketone bodies are organic compounds formed by the metabolism of fatty acids in the liver during dietary ketogenesis. They are an alternative source of energy for the body when glucose (sugar) is deficient or unavailable to cells, e.g. during a ketogenic diet.
The most important ketone bodies are: acetone, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and acetate. Acetone is released from the body along with the exhaust air, BHB and acetate are used as a source of energy by the body’s cells, including the brain.
With a ketogenic diet, which is high-fat, low-carb and moderate in protein, the body begins to convert fats into energy, which leads to increased production of ketone bodies. They are the main source of energy for the body, and the use of a ketogenic diet aims, among other things, to achieve a state of ketosis, i.e. high production of ketone bodies, which can lead to weight loss, improved glycemic control and increased physical performance.
Is long-term KETOSIS STATE safe for health?
A long-term state of ketosis can be dangerous for the body, especially for people with certain conditions or sensitivity to high levels of ketone acids. A prolonged ketogenic diet can lead to a deficiency of certain nutrients such as fiber, vitamins and minerals. In addition, a ketogenic diet may affect blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, you should always consult a dietitian or doctor before starting a ketogenic diet.
What are the health consequences of using a ketogenic diet?
The use of a ketogenic diet can lead to certain health consequences, especially if it is used for a long time or incorrectly.
- Digestive problems: A ketogenic diet can lead to digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea and nausea.
- Lack of nutrients: The ketogenic diet limits the intake of carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy and nutrients. As a result, this diet can lead to deficiencies in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- Kidney problems: A ketogenic diet can lead to an increase in fatty acids in the blood, which can put a strain on the kidneys.
- Loss of muscle mass: a ketogenic diet can lead to loss of muscle mass, especially if it is used for a long time or incorrectly.
- Risk of heart disease: A ketogenic diet can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol (so-called “bad cholesterol”) in the blood, which increases the risk of heart disease.
- Pregnancy problems: The ketogenic diet can lead to fertility and pregnancy problems due to reduced carbohydrate and nutrient intake.
Therefore, before starting a ketogenic diet, it is worth consulting with a dietitian or doctor to make sure it is suitable for your body and health goals.