The Ketogenic diet is a new form of dieting where low carbohydrate, adequate protein and high fats are consumed. The goal of a Ketogenic diet is to deplete the body's glycogen reserves so that it relies on fat and protein for energy. The body then undergoes ketosis, which is a metabolic state in which your liver produces a high number of ketones as an alternative fuel source for the brain. This form of dieting is quite popular, with dozens of pictures showing before and after results circulating all over social media.

Here follows some benefits of the keto diet and how it may help in achieving your goals.

Weight Loss

Several studies have proven that people on a low carbohydrate, high fat diet burn fat at a faster rate than those with a high carbohydrate, low fat diet. This is primarily because lower insulin levels caused by the low carbohydrate diet (keto), help to remove excess water from the body. During ketosis, you feel less hungry, which can be extremely beneficial to control caloric intake, and to promote overall weight loss. It has been experienced that low carb diets are also effective in reducing visceral fat, primarily stored in the abdominal cavity.

Mental Performance

The ketones produced from a low carbohydrate diet are a much more efficient source of energy than glucose. Studies have indicated that they can improve cognitive impairment and even help with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The high-fat diet helps to maintain the balance of essential omega 3s and omega 6s which are vital for optimal brain function. In addition, ketosis is able to boost mitochondria production and adenosine triphosphate within the brain's memory cells, which results in improving mental performance and clarity.

Reduced risk of Chronic Disease

A ketogenic diet can boost the body's defense against a variety of conditions. By reducing inflammation, and improving mitochondrial function, it can help to reduce the risk of developing several chronic diseases. Cancer cells typically possess abnormal mitochondria, which need an increased supply of glycogen. Ketosis allows to feed the normal cells, while starving the cancer cells, as they are unable to use the ketones for energy because of their dysfunctional mitochondria.

Blood Pressure Control

High blood pressure significantly increases the risk of several diseases and is a leading cause of deaths worldwide. A low-carbohydrate diet has been proven to be more effective than a low-fat diet in reducing blood pressure. In fact, some claim that it is just as effective as taking pills. This combined with the weight loss derived from a ketogenic diet, is sure to vastly improve cardiovascular health and function.

It has been shown by numerous studies in the realm of nutrition science, that this form of dieting can have a very positive impact on your overall health and bodily function. As long as you can find a way to maintain the discipline, the rewards are abundant. For those that have not been able to gain many results from traditional methods, the keto approach is definitely something worth considering.