Ketogenic diet

A ketogenic diet for a long period of time almost completely eliminates carbohydrate-rich foods from the diet.The body's main source of energy is its own fat reserves.

In a way, the ketogenic diet tricks your brain into believing that your body is undergoing a therapeutic fast.

What is the essence of the ketogenic diet?

The source of energy in a normal diet is carbohydrates, but in this case, due to the small amount of carbohydrates, the increase in strength comes from fats.By following this diet, we provide the liver with the breakdown of fat, the formation of fatty acids and ketone bodies.Once in the brain, they have an anticonvulsant effect.This is why this diet is also recommended for epilepsy.At the same time, the body is in the ketosis phase, and replacing carbohydrates with ketones is quite satisfactory for the brain, which plays an important role in the weight loss process.

Ketogenic diet rules

The diet is used for six days.Guided by certain rules, you can achieve effective results.

1. During the first three days, you can drink unlimited amounts of only non-carbonated mineral water or regular drinking water.
2. Sugary carbonated drinks and juices are prohibited.
3. It is best to maintain bed rest during this period.

4. Foods can be introduced gradually on the fourth day of the diet.
5. The serving size should be a quarter of the normal size.
6. The ratio of fats, proteins and carbohydrates should be 4:1:1, respectively.
7. A full waiver is provided for:
• fruit;
• vegetable roots;
• pasta and flour products;
• rump

Very useful information and analysis about the system on which the ketogenic diet is based can be found in the writings of Lyle MacDonald.

Ketogenic diet menu

The menu can be created from combinations of different products and recipes.We will look at one of the diet options for weight loss.

1. Breakfast:boiled chicken eggs, coffee with cream and a piece of butter.
2. Second breakfast:lean meat, onion and cucumber salad with vegetable oil.
3. Lunch:tomato, two sausages, a tablespoon of mayonnaise.
4. Afternoon snack:coffee with cream and a piece of protein bread with butter.
5. To have lunch:boiled chicken, seasoned with vegetable oil, cooked green beans and a piece of butter.

Following this principle, we created a menu for 5 days, leaving the remaining 2 days for carbohydrate consumption.And in general we can notice the result within a week.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Ketogenic Diet

Every diet has its pros and cons, and the ketogenic diet is no exception.Its advantages include:

• effective result;
• reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases;
• ketones provide the brain with energy well;
• used in the treatment of certain types of cancer.

The disadvantages are:

• decrease in the level of free testosterone in blood plasma;
• inability to use for a long time (nausea occurs);
• malaise in the first days of the diet;
• insufficient intake of microelements and vitamins.

Contraindications for use

Before going on a diet, it is advisable to consult specialists, but if you are absolutely healthy, carefully study the list of contraindications:

• diabetes mellitus;
• metabolic disorders;
• kidney and liver diseases;
• disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
• lipid and cerebrovascular diseases.

It is very important to take into account the age, weight and nutritional needs of each organism.If necessary, you can adjust the diet.