In diet culture, low-carbohydrate diets are hailed as weight-loss wonders, and we know them by name: Atkins, South Beach, and paleo. The ketogenic diet, shortened to “keto,” is one of those low-carb diets. The difference between the keto diet and others is that while one group advises replacing carbohydrates with protein, the keto diet swaps carbs with fats. But although results appear to happen fast, this diet, which has a history as a medical treatment, comes with some health risks.
jump to the REASONS
What is the keto diet?
When done correctly, the lack of carbs consumed on a keto diet forces the body into a metabolic state called “ketosis.” In this state, the liver produces a substance called “ketones” from stored fats. These ketones then supply the body with energy in place of carbohydrates—the body’s usual source of energy—which leads to rapid weight loss in…