When people no longer consume carbohydrates, or they begin to fast, there is a decrease in insulin levels and a depletion of glycogen. The result is that the body changes into a state of fat-burning. In such as state, our brains cannot use fat for fuel, so an alternative source of energy is required without any glucose and the result is that fats are converted to ketones in the liver. The ketones that are generated are then used for fuel. A ketogenic diet consists of consuming very low carbohydrates, protein in moderation, and high fat foods. This changes the way the body works by burning mostly fat and ketones instead of sugar.
Key Takeaways:
- When the body stops ingesting carbohydrates, it burns its glucose stores, and then begins converting fat into ketones.
- The ketogenic diet is centered on nutrient-dense foods, such as meat, dairy, fish and nuts, and avoids legumes, grains and sugary treats.
- Keto diet practitioners shouldn’t avoid fibrous vegetables such as leafy greens and broccoli.
“The brain cannot rely on fat for fuel, but needs an alternative energy source in the absence of glucose, so the liver instead converts fats to ketones.”
Read more: https://ketonutrition.org/what-is-keto/
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