Is The Keto Diet Right For You?

How to harness the power of this popular eating plan for long-term success

- Emily A. Kane ND, LAc

Q: So, I’m trying keto and mostly, I like it. But it seems kind of restrictive. Isn’t all that fat bad for my heart? Is this the best way to eat forever?

—Taylor M., Indianapolis

a: One important benefit of keto eating is that it gets you off sugar. The average American is addicted to sugar, and most of us don’t even realize it. In fact, sugar may be as addictive as heroin; plus, it’s cheaper and socially condoned. America is the fattest country on the planet with the highest ratesof diabetes. Luckily, many good people are willing to ignore the advertising and make sensible, health-promoting choices for themselves every day.

When your fuel comes from good quality fat, as it does in the keto diet, that feeds your brain, which is made mostly of fat. That’s my favorite part about eating keto—I can sustain focused thinking for writing or listening to my patients. A sugar- or carb-based diet creates ups and downs of energy because sugar is a short-burning fuel. One molecule of glucose produces about 36 units of the basic fuel (ATP) made inside our cells. By contrast, one molecule of fat produces up to 146 units of ATP. That’s a huge difference! Fat is a long-burning fuel that will provide a steady stream of energy over 8–10 hours. Sugar and refined carbs give a burst of energy that lasts for 2 hours tops. I’m sure you have noticed that a high-carb meal will leave you feeling hungry sooner than a meal that has at least a few tablespoons of high-quality fat.

Keto Rules for Success