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Today we’re chatting all about the ketogenic diet.
Keto is super-popular right now, and there’s a ton of information out there. Because you guys are here with me, I thought I’d share some of my thoughts on keto, who it might be right for (or not), and how to implement it in a healthful way.
Are you keto curious? Let’s chat basics.
The hardest part of creating a one-minute keto video? How the heck do you fit EVERYTHING you want to say into just one minute?!
The key points here are these:
Keto isn’t some scary, crazy crash diet – it can be incredibly healthful for many people, and people see awesome benefits from it.
There are nuances to making it work in the best way possible for each individual, so work with a knowledgeable practitioner to figure out what that looks like for YOU if you want to try it.
Folks will typically see the most benefit by basing keto around real, whole foods. For veggies, aim for mostly non-starchy options, like dark leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, etc. For meat, seafood, and eggs, look for fattier cuts from well-raised sources, if possible (grass-fed, pastured). Think: bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh, vs. a boneless/skinless chicken breast. You’re not necessarily adding TONS of fat to your meals; you’re no longer AVOIDING fat. (Wanna learn more about healthy fats? Let me know in the comments – we can talk about it in a future video!) Regarding knowledgeable practitioners: This could be your primary care doc, a naturopath, chiropractor, gynecologist, or registered dietitian or nutritionist. Connect with someone open-minded, who listens to the questions you ask, and feels like a team player in achieving your wellness goals. If you’re struggling to find someone, http://www.ketogenicdocs.com may be helpful. Finally, check out some of my favorite keto resources, below. These are podcasters and authors who’ve taught me so much about keto, and offer a wealth of information in the content they share. Use these to form your *own* opinions on keto, and then take what you’ve learned to your doc if you’re considering it. Together, you can make the best decision for YOU. After all, isn’t that what this is really about? A continual willingness to learn and try new things – because you’ll never know what’s going to work best for you, unless you try it. ♥
Have more questions? Drop a comment at the end of the post! And if you don’t follow me on Instagram already, let’s connect – @getrealwithamanda!
NEXT UP | Resources I Love
Maria Emmerich | If you want to enjoy deliciously amazing keto baked goods, recreate restaurant favorites and comfort foods, or see how a real mom with two young boys makes this lifestyle work – you’ve gotta check out Maria Emmerich. I was first introduced to her through The Ketogenic Cookbook, and later added more of her books to our wedding registry – including Keto Restaurant Favorites and Keto Comfort Foods. Do I generally eat keto? No; but I LOVE having tasty, real food inspiration on hand, and her books give you just that, no matter what way of eating you follow.
Leanne Vogel | Leanne Vogel’s The Keto Diet Podcast is an incredible resource for anyone who wants to start a ketogenic diet, especially women who may be concerned about the nuances we face thanks to our complex hormonal systems. From discussions on day-to-day life on keto, to carb-ups, to navigating keto with a history of disordered eating, Leanne touches on so much. She hosts a range of guests from within the keto community, as well as solo episodes and mini-sodes where she shares her own experiences. Leanne’s approach is loving and kind, and truly appreciative of the many approaches to making keto work on an individual level.
Keto Quick Start | Keto Quick Start is NYT-bestselling author Diane Sanfilippo’s latest book. Here, she breaks down the complexities of keto in her signature, practical way. Her focus is on real whole foods, simplifying the science (while still helping you understand what’s *really* going on in your body), and teaching you how to troubleshoot and customize your keto diet. This is the perfect place to start for keto beginners, or those who’ve tried keto before, but found it didn’t work for them. This book will get you on the right track – plus there are tons of delicious recipes to support you along the way!
Originally published January 23, 2019
Last updated April 11, 2023
Blog post cover image credit: Saymom Leão on Unsplash