Why Keto?
Okay Siwicki Fit Fam, let’s round up all details of the Keto diet here. We have been talking a lot about it in the recent weeks, and are pretty excited to get started on Tuesday with our Keto Meal Plan. Many of you express concern in regards to weight loss, and with the help of Amanda from Amanda Lauren Wellness, we are convinced that the Keto diet may be a great opportunity for so many of you to shed unwanted pounds, reduce sugar cravings, amp up your athletic performance and so much more!
What is a Keto diet?
A keto diet is a low-carb diet that results in ketosis. To achieve this, the diet has to be very low in carbohydrates. Most keto diets are also moderate in protein and high in fat. Generally, popular ketogenic resources suggest an average of 70-80% fat from total daily calories, 5-10% carbohydrate, and 10-20% protein.
What is Ketosis?
Ketosis is a normal process allowing your body to keep working when you eat few carbohydrates.
Carbs are one of two major fuels for the body. We can also burn fat for energy, but the brain can’t burn fat directly. Instead, when eating very low carb, fat is converted in the liver to ketones that are released into the blood stream. This is a great fuel for your brain.
The process of fueling the entire body with fat, including the production of ketones, is called ketosis. Under normal circumstances ketosis is safe and natural, for example when it is the result of a low-carb (“keto”) diet, or while fasting.
Do I have to stay on this diet forever for it to work?
Absent a medical condition or personal preference, it is actually much better to cycle in and out of ketosis vs. stay in it long term. Once your body becomes metabolically flexible (able to burn fat or carbs for fuel), you are able to go in and out of ketosis based upon what you eat.
What can I eat and drink on the Keto diet?
Best to stick to tea, water and coffee. This is not a plan where cheat days can happen. Sorry folks! Go big or go home.