There are many diets programs out there for people who want to lose weight. The keto diet is very popular. In my 8 years of fitness coaching, I’ve never tried it for myself or recommended it for my clients. However, that changed two weeks ago and I suggested that “we” try it for two weeks, myself included.
Previously, I never considered keto because of the high amount of fat that you’re required consume, as well as the very low amount of carbs suggested. Due to my family history of heart disease and my own usage of blood pressure medication, I never wanted to risk eating the high amounts of fat required for keto, but I figured two weeks would not hurt.
Planning was the first step. The ladies and I agreed to two weeks and the first thing we did was planned our meals and snacks. We knew 20 grams of carbs per day is classic keto. That was going to be the hardest part. Some of us also purchased urine strips to test for ketosis.
By day 3 I was in ketosis. My pee proved it, as well as my body. On day two I was light-headed and realized I needed the bulk of my carbs first thing in the morning. That helped a lot. I experienced classic keto flu…headaches, low energy, constipation, etc. By day 5 I knew keto wasn’t for me. I did lose 4 pounds in 7 days, but I could just as well have those results with my usual low-carb plan that I’ve used since 2009.
I did learn more about keto: planning is key, choosing healthier fats is important, and assessing whether it’s something you can do long-term is very important.
Keto has lots of benefits, but there are down sides. As a weight loss specialist, I am glad I tried it in case future clients want me to help them stay the course with keto instead of the low-carb plans I provide.
In a nutshell, it’s not for me.
What, if any, type of nutrition plan are you using to shed or manage your weight loss?