The objective of this type of diet is to induce a condition of ketosis, often known as the ketogenic state. Ketosis is a metabolic state that takes the place of glucose as the principal source of fuel for the body's central nervous system and brain. Ketone bodies are the molecules that are produced during this process (Masood, 2021).
When there are carbs in your diet, and when the glycogen (glucose) stores in your body are depleted, your body will enter a state called ketosis. Ketones are produced when the body shifts its energy source away from carbohydrates and toward the breakdown of fat for fuel.
May encourage weight loss.
One of the most common reasons is the purported ability to help them shed extra pounds. Compared to low-fat diets, the ketogenic diet has been shown in several trials to result in far more rapid and significant weight loss over the short term (Paoli, 2014). On the other hand, it's possible that a considerable portion of the first weight loss is just water weight.
According to the findings of some studies, the ketogenic diet may be more effective than other eating programs in reducing abdominal body fat and encouraging weight reduction that is maintained over time (Kong, 2020). Visceral fat is another name for abdominal fat since it surrounds the organs in the abdominal cavity. This particular form of fat has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver (Elffers, 2017).
It may improve cholesterol levels.
Low-density lipoproteins, also known as "bad" cholesterol, have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease as well as the formation of plaques. HDL, or high-density lipoproteins, are considered the "good" cholesterol because they help reduce the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
According to the findings of certain studies, following a ketogenic diet may help lower total cholesterol while simultaneously raising HDL levels (Paoli, 2014). As a result, following a ketogenic diet may reduce the chance of developing coronary heart disease by favorably affecting cholesterol levels.
However, there is some ambiguity about this connection. While adhering to a keto diet, LDL levels may rise, according to the findings of several research (Masood, 2021).
Reduces seizures
Before anticonvulsant medicine was readily available, the ketogenic diet was developed to reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures. People who have difficulty controlling their seizures with medicine alone are still turning to the ketogenic diet to help lessen their seizures' frequency and severity (Masood, 2021).
May improve insulin resistance and blood sugar control
The glucose from the carbs we eat is transported into our cells by the hormone insulin. A resistance to insulin can be the root cause of persistently high blood sugar, which, if left untreated, can ultimately result in type 2 diabetes.
People with diabetes have started turning to low-carb diets as a possible approach to reduce their blood sugar levels. This is because high blood glucose is the problem that diabetes causes. According to some research, the ketogenic diet may help people with type 2 diabetes better control their insulin and blood sugar levels (Shilpa, 2018). Suppose you have diabetes and are taking medication. In that case, it is imperative that you discuss any potential dietary changes with your healthcare practitioner before implementing them, as your medications may require closer monitoring if you make certain dietary adjustments.