What is Ketosis?

Ketosis is a metabolic stage in which the body will burn fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. It is defined by an increase in the concentration of ketone bodies in the blood.

The body enters ketosis when it does not have enough carbs to burn for energy. This can happen if a person is following a very low-carbohydrate diet, such as the ketogenic diet, fasting, or engaging in strenuous physical activity. When the body lacks carbohydrates to consume for energy, it begins to break down fat stores for energy, resulting in the generation of ketones.

Ketosis can help with specific medical disorders like epilepsy, and it is also sometimes employed as a weight loss approach. It is crucial to note, however, that ketosis is not a healthy or sustainable state for the body to be in over time. Before beginning a low carbohydrate diet or attempting to induce ketosis, consult with a healthcare expert.

Ketosis may offer advantages other than weight loss. Doctors may recommend a keto diet for children with epilepsy since it can help prevent seizures. Adults with epilepsy may follow a modified Atkins diet.

According to some studies, ketogenic diets may help lessen your risk of heart disease. Other studies demonstrate that low-carb diets can help persons with disorders such as:

• Syndrome of Metabolic Syndrome
• Insulin sensitivity
• Diabetes mellitus – type 2

Ketosis normally begins after 3 or 4 days of consuming less than 50 grammes of carbohydrates per day in healthy adults who do not have diabetes or are not pregnant. This is equivalent to three slices of bread, a cup of low-fat fruit yoghurt, or two small bananas. You can also begin ketosis by fasting.

A ketogenic or “keto” diet is one that is high in fat and protein but low in carbohydrates.