The ketogenic — or keto — diet [1] includes low-carb and high-fat intake to help promote weight loss and other health benefits. This diet [2] shares many similarities with the Atkins diet, as well as other low-carb diet plans. Registered dietitian Emily Kuberski told POPSUGAR that the keto plan [3] was initially originated to help with epilepsy, diabetes, and other health conditions. But when people want to implement it to lose weight, according to Healthline, "It involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake [4] and replacing it with fat. The reduction in carbs puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis." This allows your body the ability to burn fat at a quicker rate.
And although this diet [6] sounds like a great plan if you're getting ready to hit the beach and need to lose some excess pounds fast, Kuberski warns that, "When you stop this diet, it is likely that you will regain those pounds quickly because you restricted yourself from all of those carbs." But one perk to the diet is that it typically can still leave you satisfied and full, not starving like some diets leave you feeling. One reason for this full feeling, and the success of the diet, is it is high in protein. Many bodybuilders and other fitness fanatics stand by the keto diet because the high protein content can help build even more muscles.
So, what does the plan include? Again, the keto diet is one that is high in protein [7], so eating meats like chicken, beef, and turkey are all a part of the plan. Other great sources of protein are fish and eggs. Foods high in fats include nuts and seeds, avocado, cheese, butter, and healthy oils. It's also important to keep eating your veggies, too, so don't forget those green vegetables like broccoli and spinach. Yes, the keto diet may sound appealing to you, and also may help you lose weight, but remember to always seek your doctor's approval when restricting your diet in any way.