Tell me more about Keto!

Jun 16, 2021

Keto is a low carb, high-fat diet that supports weight loss, fights illness & disease and improves overall health.

With health benefits like this, it’s no wonder the Ketogenic diet has risen to become one of the top three diets worldwide. But what exactly is the Ketogenic diet, and could it be a possible diet option for you? In this blog post we're going to explore the benefits of a Ketogenic diet and help you determine if this transformational eating regime is right for you.

The Ketogenic Diet

The Ketogenic diet (also known as Keto) was first introduced in the 1920s as a treatment approach to address childhood epilepsy. Soon after, it was discovered as a successful means for weight management, metabolism control, and appetite suppression. Scientists over the years have investigated the diet and studies have shown the Keto diet to be highly beneficial in various health conditions such as:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancers
  • Brain injuries
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease

The science behind the Keto diet

The Keto diet forces your body to rely on a different type of fuel. Normally, our bodies count on the glucose found in carbohydrates. This glucose is derived from vegetables, legumes, grains, and fruit. As carbohydrates are eliminated the diet turns to calories found in fats. These fats are then turned into ketone bodies which act as an alternative energy source for the body. The reduction in carbohydrates forces the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. This is where blood sugar drops and the body breaks down fat for energy. Simply put, the body uses its fat-burning system to help lose weight.

Apart from the science, the question on everyone’s lips is what can you eat on a Keto diet? 

Foods you can eat on a Keto diet

  • Seafood: Fish and shellfish (highly recommended on a Keto diet).
  • Low starch vegetables: Avocado, Broccoli, Eggplant, Kale, Tomatoes.
  • Grass-fed meat & poultry: Meat and poultry do not contain carbs and are rich in protein and nutrients. Grass-fed meat is the healthiest option.
  • Dairy: Cheese, Sour Cream, full-fat Yogurts & Eggs. The higher fat content the better.
  • Healthy fats: Avocado, Olive Oil & Coconut Oil.
  • Nuts & seeds: Walnuts, Brazil nuts & Almonds. 

Although this brief list of foods may seem limiting, there’s actually a wide variety of tasty and versatile foods you can eat.  If you’re anything like us, we know what you may be thinking... how will I manage those extreme sugar cravings?  Desserts must definitely be off-limits? Right?

Well… what if we told you they don’t have to be!

Low carb keto desserts

Yes, the Keto diet does indeed require you to reduce and restrict sugary foods. But with the evolution of the Keto diet has come many low-carb Keto-friendly desserts. Choose from healthy Keto donuts, cheesecakes, or a delicious brownie, the options are endless. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, hop into our recipes section. You’ll find a world of recipes that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

PRO TIP: Because the Keto diet lowers your blood sugar levels you will notice your sugar cravings becoming more intense. For such times, we suggest you keep Keto-friendly sweets on hand. Justine’s Keto-friendly cookies are a great on-the-go snack that will curb those sugar cravings and keep you feeling fuller for longer.

And the best thing is you can rest assured knowing your sweet treat won't derail all the progress you've achieved so far.