There are most definitely pros and cons to the keto diet [1], and while it's not for everyone [2], those with specific medical needs [3] are having major success on the almost-no-carb, very-high-fat diet [4].
However, if you're going to give keto a shot, there's one huge thing you need to keep in mind, and we've been hearing it from trainers and nutritionists across the board. Because you have to essentially eliminate carbohydrates [5], many dieters are too afraid to eat vegetables because of their natural carb content. This is a fatal flaw, according to DIAKADI personal trainer and founder of AUSome Fit Austin Lopez, CSCS [6].
"The problem with keto [7] that I find is that people don't want to eat vegetables because they add to your carb count — this is a terrible idea," Lopez told POPSUGAR. "You have to be very careful [when on the keto diet] about not undershooting micronutrients [8]." If you suddenly stop putting them into your body, you can suffer serious health consequences [9].
Nutritionist Dr. Josh Axe agrees [11] and tells anyone doing keto to focus on "loading up on vegetables and water" while eating "some meat." He emphasised maintaining alkalinity through the consumption of vegetables, herbs, and leafy greens — all of which are often neglected on the diet.
As you may have gathered, micronutrients are bountiful in vegetables, but focusing too much on the shift in macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbohydrates) leaves you potentially neglecting the micronutrients which are just as important for your body's function (think: potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron). Get the greens back in your diet so you can continue your journey to optimal health.