The ketogenic diet, commonly known as the keto diet, has become popular as a mechanism to lose weight. Those following the keto diet basically decrease the number of carbs they consume and increase their fat intake. Outside of weight loss, many people overlook the fact that there are more health benefits when following this diet than just losing weight. Before starting the keto diet, take a look at the benefits below that can also play a major role in improving your health.
Weight loss. When it comes to weight loss, it is easier to burn fats than it is to burn carbs. Because the keto diet is a low-carb diet, weight tends to drop a lot faster than a higher carb intake. Because the keto diet is high in fats, it leaves the dieter satiated.
Reduce blood sugar and insulin levels. Being that diabetes is a disease that many Americans suffer from, especially African Americans, the keto diet lowers insulin levels. When carbs are eliminated from the diet, there is a decrease in blood sugar and insulin levels. If you are taking medication to control your blood sugar levels, consult your doctor before starting this diet.
Treatment of epilepsy in children. The keto diet has proved beneficial to children with epilepsy by reducing the number of epileptic seizures that the child has. The diet usually decreases the number of seizures that the child has by half and can eliminate the seizures altogether. The keto diet is also used for children with specific disorders, such as the Lennox-Gastaut and Rett syndromes.
Women with PCOS will see an improvement in their health. PCOS, polycystic ovarian syndrome, an endocrine disorder, is usually found in women during their reproductive years. With PCOS, the ovaries are enlarged and cysts form. When maintaining the diet for at least six months, it can aid in balancing hormones. Also, there is an improvement in the luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone ratio.
