The Ketogenic Diet: Background

In recent years, there has been a reemergence in the popularity of the ketogenic diet. The diet has been toted as an effective weight-loss method for those who do no wish to cut down on meat or fats.

Historically, the ketogenic diet, or “keto” diet was used in individuals with epilepsy to prevent their seizures. It had been known since antiquity that children with epilepsy who fasted for two to three weeks could deter epilepsy’s negative effects. However this method of treatment was not sustainable and alternative methods were sought. R.M. Wilder at the Mayo Clinic in 1921 developed the ketogenic diet as a way to mimic the body’s changes during the fasting process. Of these biological processes of the body are “ketosis, acidosis, and dehydration.”

What Composes the Diet?

So what primarily comprises the diet? According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Diets, the diet is a low-carb, high-fat, moderate-protein diet. Foods that can be eaten on the diet are high-fat foods such as “bacon, butter, coconut and avocado.” Fats should make up 65 to 75 percent of the person’s dietary intake, while carbohydrates are generally restricted to 10 percent of the diet, and a moderate protein amount of 15 to 25 percent is alloted (Steussy).

Foods to avoid on the diet are importantly, carbohydrates, grains, sugar, fruits, and tubers (yams, potatoes, etc.) (ruled.me). A general rule of thumb is to eat vegetables that grow above ground (leafy greens, broccoli) and avoid vegetables that grow underground.

Creativity

The restriction of foods allowed leads to creativity when making recipes. For example, for breakfast, a person could have a bacon, kale, and tomato frittata; for lunch they could prepare creamy shrimp salad or vegetarian taco stuffed avocados.

Later on, as a snack, they could have cauliflower hummus with harissa crackers, or smothered portobello mushroom fries.

For dinner they can make creamy spinach alfredo zucchini rolls, or jalapeno popper pizza, and for a side item they can eat broccoli cauliflower salad or teriyaki grilled eggplant.

For sweet drinks, they can make a dairy-free dark chocolate shake or a blueberry banana bread smoothie.

Ending Note

Ultimately, it is up to the individual whether they want to partake in the ketogenic diet or not. One should weigh and compare the benefits with the detriments, risks, and factors. Although limited in foods one can eat, they can still be creative in their cooking and swap some ingredients for others.

The keto diet is a diet with its proven benefits, but also comes with its setbacks. Though able to lose weight, those on the diet can’t keep on it long-term without side effects. The keto diet can prove a beneficial aid in one’s life to reach their health goals. Individuals also need to have a realistic mindset with their goals, as there is no ‘magic’ cure or diet for their ailments.