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Jan 15

Renee Slabic: With New Years resolutions to lose weight come fads like the ketogenic diet – GoErie.com

Erie Times-News

As always, the new Year brings resolutions to lose weight, and one of the fads that has been aroundis the ketogenic diet.

The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carbohydrate eating pattern that severely restricts carbohydrates from all sources.

The program aims at keeping carbs below 50 grams per day, which means no breads, grains or cereals. Even nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables are limited because they, too, contain carbs.

Carbs are the main source of energy for our bodies and without enough carbs for energy, the body breaks down fat into ketones. The ketones then become the primary source of fuel for the body.

Ketones provide energy for the heart, kidneys and other muscles. The body also uses ketones as an alternative energy source for the brain.

A ketogenic diet is actually a partial fast. During a total fast or starvation state, the body has no source of energy. Thus, it breaks down lean muscle mass for fuel.

With the keto diet, the ketones provide an alternative source of energy, burning calories. Unlike a full fast, the keto diet helps to maintain lean muscle mass.

The keto diet is definitely not recommended for those with:

Pancreatic disease

Liver conditions

Thyroid problems

Eating disorders or a history of eating disorders

Gallbladder disease or those who have had their gallbladders removed

It is also important to recognize that the keto diet can cause both short-term and long-term health risks for all people, including upset stomach, headache, fatigue and dizzy spells. This is called the keto flu.

The diet can also lead to difficulty sleeping, constipation from lack of fruits or veggies, kidney stones, liver disease, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Studies are currently underway into whether or not the high-fat nature of the keto diet may also increase the risk for heart disease and other chronic health problems.

Because the keto diet is another variation of a fad diet, which is severely restrictive, it is difficult to follow and long-term compliance is poor. You will have more long-term success by decreasing empty carb calories such as sugary soft drinks, candy, cakes, pies and chips.

Instead, choose the nutritionally powerful complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, beans and fresh fruit.

Discuss any serious changes in your diet with your family doctor. For a personalized weight management plan that meets your individual needs, consult a registered dietitian.

Renee Slabic is a registered dietitian at Saint Vincent Hospital.

See original here:
Renee Slabic: With New Years resolutions to lose weight come fads like the ketogenic diet - GoErie.com

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