*Today, we’re exploring one of the latest popular diet trends: the ketogenic diet. For those unaware of its cult following, the keto diet is essentially a low-carb, high-fat diet. The lack of carbohydrates leads your body into ketosis, a metabolic state in which your body burns fat for energy. It has gained traction over the last few years as people have marveled at their bodies' ability to burn fat and shed weight. One drawback is that many people have a difficult time reaching the state of ketosis. To address this common concern, we at Fruitful Yield will talk about four essentials to maximize your keto journey!
Love Your Liver
Taking extra care of the liver is an essential step. As your body uses fat as fuel, it releases toxins at an increased rate, placing excess stress on the liver. To avoid this issue, introducing an herbal detox supplementation may be beneficial. Herbs like dandelion and milk thistle promote liver detoxification and insure that your body is properly disposing of these toxins.
In particular, milk thistle contains an active ingredient called silymarin. Extracted from the thistle seeds, silymarin boasts high levels of antioxidants and supports healthy liver function. Whether one detoxes in supplement form or consumes a detoxifying tea, supporting the liver may help a ketogenic diet be more sustainable and effective!
The Importance of Enzymes
Stomach aches and bloating are a common complaint for those beginning ketogenic diet. As the body switches from consuming a modern diet to a strict, low-carb, high-fat diet, the digestive system may have a difficult time adjusting. Introducing a keto-specific enzyme may support the body through these side effects.
It’s important to look for an enzyme blend that contains lipases and proteases. Lipases work to break down fats: the largest emphasis of this diet. Proteases aid in breaking down proteins into amino acids. The use of an enzyme may support a smooth transition to a keto-friendly diet!
Mineral Consumption
Mineral deficiencies can lead to a plethora of issues for those following a low-carb, high-fat diet. Many people experience the “keto flu” during the transition, and can feel incredibly sluggish. Much of this may be attributed to three common mineral deficiencies: sodium, potassium, and magnesium. This is a common occurrence. A low-carb diet may lead to a loss in water weight; as the body sheds water, it may also lose sodium and eventually potassium.
Moderate amounts of high quality salt and eating potassium-rich foods, like avocado and spinach, may help alleviate these symptoms. Magnesium is another mineral that may be missing from a ketogenic diet. If one experiences leg cramps or muscle fatigue, it might be a sign of low magnesium levels. Adding a daily electrolyte mix may boost energy and overall comfort. A good keto-focused electrolyte should have theTse three important minerals!
Boost The Burn
The main draw to this type of diet is the fat burning claims. For those transitioning to a keto diet, or for keto-lovers who feel they’ve hit a plateau, a ketone activator may support the body’s fat-burning abilities. Ketone-enhancing supplements contain BHB: a ketone produced during a fasting state that changes the body’s source of energy from glucose to fat. The addition of this supplement to a healthy, high-fat, low-carb diet may support ketosis.
Blended with apple cider vinegar and the desired potassium, sodium, and magnesium, this supplement may boost ketones while providing the body with depleted minerals. Ensuring that you avoid the undesirable cramping and headaches associated with insufficient mineral consumption.
The ketogenic diet can be an incredibly effective diet when properly followed. Be sure to consult your doctor about any diet or lifestyle changes to help you through! For those cutting back simple carbs and embracing a sugar-free lifestyle, we hope you feel the benefits soon! With the summer months upon us, we all hope to look and feel our best. We hope these tips encourage you on your fat-burning journey!
Would you give keto a try? Have any tips on making the most of keto? Let us know in the comments below to win a basket full of ketogenic goodies from our Bloomingdale, IL location. Basket includes Ancient Nutrition Keto Digest, NOW Grape Slender Sticks, NOW Organic Dandelion Tea, and Zhou Nutrition Keto Drive in Orange Mango flavor! One winner will be picked on Monday morning, 6-29-20.
