The ketogenic diet, or keto for short, is a very low-carb diet that’s high in fat and moderate in protein. It’s similar to other grain-free and low-carb diets, like paleo and Atkins, and calls for eating meats, dairy, eggs, fish, nuts, butters, oils, and non-starchy vegetables.
Replacing most of the body’s carbohydrate intake with fat causes it to be better at burning fat for energy. Usually, cells use blood sugar — which comes from carbohydrates — to create energy. But when there are more ketones (fat molecules) in the blood than blood sugar, the body will burn stored fat instead. This metabolic state is called ketosis.
The diet isn’t new. It’s actually been used for decades as a treatment for children with epilepsy whose seizures weren’t responding to medication. You see, studiesTrusted Source have shown that the keto diet is effective for reducing seizures. Because of this, researchers believe it may also have positive benefits for other neurological conditions, like autism, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, and brain tumors.
But keto is most popular for its weight loss benefits. The diet is often used to help control hunger and boost weight loss in people who are obese. It may also help with blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Whether you’re looking to try a keto diet for the first time or add new dishes to your routine, these recipes have you covered.
Low Carb Taco Night with Cheese Taco Shells
It’s hard to think of ways to make tacos better — they’re already pretty delicious. But creative friends and bloggers Kat and Melinda at Home. Made. Interest. found one. Enter the cheese taco shell. Their recipe uses cheddar cheese to form the taco shell instead of a tortilla — fill it with all your favorite taco fillings! Get the recipe!
Loaded Cauliflower
Cauliflower makes a pretty good carb substitute. It’s buttery, works with all sorts of flavors, and feels like comfort food when cooked. This recipe by Low Carb Maven is ideal when you’re craving mashed potatoes or loaded potato skins. It has all the savory elements, like butter, sour cream, chives, cheddar, and bacon! Get the recipe!
Low Carb Sesame Chicken
Sesame chicken in Chinese carryout dishes is often battered or breaded, making it a poor option for those sticking to low-carb diets. Vicky’s take on the recipe for her blog, Tasteaholics, recreates the popular dish without all the carbs, using arrowroot to help the sauce stick! Get the recipe!