The ketogenic diet, or the “keto” diet, is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. It works by drastically reducing the intake of carbohydrates, which forces the body to burn fat for energy instead of glucose, which is a type of sugar obtained from carbohydrates. This results in the body being in ketosis, hence the name “ketogenic.” When the body is in ketosis, the liver produces ketones, which are molecules that can be used as an energy source by the body.

The typical macronutrient ratio for a ketogenic diet is 5-10% of calories from carbohydrates, 20-25% from protein, and 70-75% from fat. This ratio forces the body to rely on fat as its primary energy source, leading to weight loss and other health benefits in some people. The keto diet is used for weight loss, diabetes management, epilepsy treatment, and some other health conditions.

It’s important to note that the ketogenic diet can be hard to stick to and may have some side effects, so it is not recommended for everyone. Some individuals do well on it, while others don’t. The relative nutrient percentages that put a person into ketosis can vary from one person to the next.

There are some risks in your body being in ketosis so it is best to talk to your health professional before you start on any keto program to make sure you are a good candidate. It’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take prescription medications.