Should I Follow the Keto Diet?

The short answer is…. NO.

But we’re all about education here, so I wanted to take the time to discuss the latest dieting trend and why you do NOT need to follow the Keto Diet.

First, let’s start with the basics.

What is the Keto Diet?

This fad requires an extremely low dose of carbohydrate intake with the goal of forcing the body to burn fat for energy instead of carb, a state called ketosis.

Why shouldn’t I do this?

1) It is extremely difficult to actually achieve ketosis.

This isn’t just about “cutting out bread.” Achieving ketosis, which is monitored by testing for ketones in your urine, requires carefully calculating the number of carbs you can consume each day. And that number is low… very, very low. Also, ketosis is a state common in those diagnosed with diabetes when their blood sugar is not in control. Ketones can build up ot a toxic level called ketoacidosis, which c

2) It’s not just about carbs.

Our bodies don’t discriminate. There are three macronutrients that our body can use for energy, not just two — carb, protein and fat. Cutting out the carb does not mean we automatically burn fat. So along with calculating carbs, you also need to carefully calculate your protein intake and keep it oh-so-just-perfect in order to achieve ketosis. Too high – ketosis won’t happen. Too low – well that’s even worse. Your body needs protein to function healthfully, and we don’t store any extra protein. So you body will start pulling the from the only place it can – your muscles. Legs, arms, abs and … heart muscle. Now that’s scary.

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Really I should just stop there. What kind of life will you have if you have to sit there crunching number all day just to EAT. A basic bodily function needed for survival. Sounds awful to me. Also, if it takes that much work to trick your body into something… doesn’t that sound unnatrual. It’s NOT what your body wants to be doing!! Not only is this difficult, unnatural and sounds painful, it clearly can lead to obsessive behaviors.

But I’ll keep going….

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3) There are no long-term studies on this diet that beneficial effects.

So just because your co-worker or neighbor lost 20 lbs following the keto diet, that doesn’t mean a) it will stay off and b) they won’t suffer any longer term medical consequences of their very restrictive diet. There ARE many research studies proving that diets don’t work in the long run and in fact often lead to a higher body weight, and more medical risks, than one would have naturally maintained had they never dieted at all.

3) There is zero research on the mental affects of such an extreme diet.

4) Our bodies need carb!

5) Increases risk for long term deficiencies.

Still want more information? Here are some other well-written and well-researched articles on the Keto Diet:

Why the Fat Burning Obsession in Keto Diets is Dangerous

The low-down on “eating keto.”

Four Popular Diet Myths “debunked” by Nutrition Experts

Does the Keto Diet Really Give You a Mental Edge?

What You Need to Know Before Going Keto