The ketogenic diet is a strict, high fat, low carbohydrate, controlled protein diet that has been used since the 1920s for the treatment of epilepsy. The diet forces the body into a state of ketosis – when you burn fat, instead of carbohydrates, for energy.
But how did keto became so widely popular in recent years?
A 2018 Google Trends chart shows searches for “keto” have surpassed searches for “paleo” “Whole 30” and “intermittent fasting.” It’s not surprising that the demand for keto-friendly products have increased with the help of social media and thru word of mouth.
On social platforms, dieters are able to share their weight-loss progress and share keto tips and recipes to their followers. Often times, users put their weight loss in their bios. The ketogenic diet has also become a celebrity-endorsed lifestyle trend in the past few years. Everyone from reality star Kourtney Kardashian to NBA pro Lebron James has admitted to engaging in the ketogenic lifestyle.
Ted Tieken, founder of Keto and Company, which makes keto meal shake powders, said that there has been a significant change in awareness around the diet.
“About six months ago, I stopped having to explain what keto was to the average person,” he said. And in the last several weeks, “people get offended when I explain.”
True fans of the ketogenic diet like the lifestyle for its health benefits, like more energy, notable weight loss and a better focus.
However, a real ketogenic diet is extremely difficult to adhere to. Dietitians suggest people going keto should aim to get 70-80% of their calories from fat, with less than 10% from carbs, which can be a huge challenge for most.
On the keto plan, you’re only supposed to eat about 20 grams of carbs a day, and that includes fruits and vegetables. You’re not supposed to eat starchy foods like bread, rice, potatoes, or beans. The diet is very strict on its no sugar policy and even dairy products, including milk and yogurt, are a no go. Instead, the diet focuses on the consumption of proteins and fats, and very small amounts of non-starchy vegetables like green beans, brussels sprouts and broccoli.
While keto websites and cookbooks have been designed to make it easier for dieters to stick to the lifestyle, it’s no surprise meal delivery services are also jumping on board.
Ketoned Bodies is one of the keto meal delivery services available to customers. Dieters can conveniently select the keto friendly meals they want from the menu, and the meals will be delivered to their doorstep. All of the meals are keto-approved and there is no preparation necessary. The premade ketogenic meals come in microwave and oven safe containers and make reheating as simple as possible.
It’s important to remember, what works for one person may not work for everyone. If you are interested in learning more about the keto diet, it’s best to do your homework and really research what it all entails.
