Traditional diet standards have long taught people that low fat diets will help you lose weight. While this seems to be common a sense way of thinking about losing weight, there are also those who follow a completely different weight loss regimen. The ketogenic diet focuses on eating foods containing high amounts of good fats, which can help speed up weight loss. Combine this with less carbohydrates and higher protein, and some say it can help turn the body into a fat burning machine.
What Fats Can You Eat?
Trans fats are known to be extremely bad for your health. But there are a lot of foods that contain high levels of good fats that can actually lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and help you to lose weight. These fats are known as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, and have been proven to help speed up the body's metabolism and keep insulin levels steady. Some foods that contain good fats include avocado, pure butter, and even things like sour cream and half and half.
How Does it Work?
Carbohydrates and unhealthy fats can wreak havoc on the body's insulin levels. When your insulin levels are unstable, it causes you to feel hungry and want more to satiate those cravings. This can cause overeating as well as cravings for foods with little nutritional value such as white flour or sugar. When you eat foods that are high in healthy fats and lower in carbohydrates, your insulin levels will remain stable, causing you to feel fuller for longer. Add in lots of protein, and you also have the added benefit of improved muscle function. The more muscle your body has, the more fat it can burn since muscle works to help burn off fat cells.
What is the Keto Diet?
The term keto comes from the word ketosis. This means that your body is in a ketogenic state, and the body begins to burn off something called ketones. Ketones are energy molecules found in the bloodstream, and provide fuel for the brain and body. When they are released, your body will begin to utilize the remaining fat stores for fuel and energy, resulting in weight loss. The keto diet is similar to popular diets like the Atkins diet because it encourages dieters to limit their intake of carbohydrates. The difference is that with the ketogenic diet, you're encouraged to eat higher levels of good fats in addition to lower carbohydrates. Contact a local weight loss center, like Martin Medical Center, for more information.
Share20 October 2015
If life keeps you busy, you might not have time to work out or play sports. As a busy parent and teacher, I don't have much time to spare when it comes to exercise. Every time I sign up for a fitness program, I end up quitting due to my hectic schedule. But after gaining 30 pounds last year, I decided to start an exercise program and stick with it. Now, I'm pleased to say that I'm 15 pounds lighter and feeling much healthier. If you want to set fitness goals but lack ambition or time, read my blog. I offer tips on how to set and meet realistic goals. You also learn how to improve your goals with the right diet. Good luck and don't give up.
