The Ketogenic Diet, also known as the Keto diet, is a low-carb and high-fat diet that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake while increasing fat consumption to put your body into a state of ketosis where it burns stored fats for energy instead of glucose from carbs.

While this can lead to significant weight loss and improved health markers, following a ketogenic diet incorrectly or without proper guidance can be dangerous. Here are some common mistakes people make when following a ketogenic diet:

Not properly tracking macronutrients

The key to success on any diet is tracking what you eat so you know exactly how many calories, protein, fat, and carbs you’re consuming each day. On a ketogenic diet, getting too much protein or carbs can throw off your macros and prevent you from entering ketosis. Make sure to use an app like MyFitnessPal or track food using a journal to ensure accuracy.

Overdoing the saturated fats

Saturated fats are essential for maintaining optimal cholesterol levels and promoting heart health but eating too much can increase inflammation and contribute to chronic disease over time. Aim to get most of your fats from sources such as avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, coconut oil, and grass-fed meat rather than processed snacks and junk food.

Neglecting micronutrient intake

While focusing on macronutrients is important, don’t forget about micronutrients too! Vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in keeping your body functioning optimally. Consider taking a multivitamin or supplementing with specific nutrients if needed.

Failing to stay hydrated

Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and other symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid sugary drinks which can actually dehydrate you further.

Ignoring Exercise

Exercise not only helps you lose weight faster but also improves cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, reduces stress, and boosts mood. Even just 30 minutes per day of moderate intensity activity can have significant benefits.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can follow a safe and effective ketogenic diet plan while still seeing results. Remember to always consult with a doctor before starting any new diet or lifestyle change and listen to your body’s needs along the way.