I’m sure you’ve heard of the keto diet. If not, may I introduce you to the book “Grain Brain” by Dr. Perlmutter? I HIGHLY recommend this book and found it fascinating. Make sure to read the updated 2018 edition, linked below.
The keto diet is simply about shifting your metabolic process. In today’s Western diet where cereals, breads, cookies, cakes, fruits (yes, fruits), and other sugar-loaded sources abound, most of us eat so many carbs per day that the body simply relies on carbs for the metabolic process. The premise of keto is to reduce the carb intake to a minimum so that the body switches from metabolizing carbs to metabolizing stored fat. This metabolic process is called ketosis. Your body will produce ketones and this will increase energy. Making the metabolic switch requires minimizing your carb intake (typically to under 20 – 50 grams per day, depending on your weight) and increasing the amount of good fats and protein.
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Here’s a nice explanation from Dr. Oz:
Aside from the obvious benefit of weight loss, it reduces inflammation, increases energy, reduces sugar cravings and dependency on sugars and carbs, and helps remove (or reduce) gluten from the diet.
Dr. Perlmutter’s research shows that EVERYONE is sensitive to gluten, as our bodies are unable to process it well — especially at the high levels typical in the American diet. And the impact that high levels of gluten has on the brain and gut is highly damaging.
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In “Grain Brain“, he details a variety of studies that link carb intake to Alzheimer’s. After reading this book and researching the keto diet, I have started to adjust what I’ve been eating. I’m not doing this for weight loss, but for the overall health and energy benefits. I was able to shift into ketosis within a few days and could immediately feel the increase in energy. If you’re wondering how to check if you’re in ketosis or not, you just use these strips. It’s been a lot easier to follow than I thought and I don’t feel like I’m missing out. It’s not like you can’t have ANY carbs, but it really makes you think twice about what you’re eating. As with any diet, if you’re going to try keto, make sure to consult with your physician first.
What To Buy
MCT Oil MCT (Medium-chain triglycerides)
MCT Oil is derived from coconuts and promotes ketosis and helps to increase energy levels. You can add it to coffee.
Coconut Oil
It’s important to have lots of fats and coconut oil is a good source of healthy fat (along with avocado oil and olive oil). Coconut oil can be used for baking and cooking.
Almond Flour
Almond flour is a great substitute for regular flour.
Keto Strips
This is how you’ll be able to tell if you’re in ketosis.
Keto Recipes
The key to successfully doing keto is planning ahead. Find recipes that are easy to make and sound good to you and you’ll see how easy it is to stick to it.
