In Australia, three out of every four men and three of five women are either overweight or obese. This translates to two-thirds of the entire adult population. In children, the prevalence is at 25%.
But while obesity in Australia is rising, so is health awareness. This is apparent in the increasing interest in various diet programs. One of the more popular is the ketogenic diet, or simply the keto diet. A special diet like Keto Australia offers many benefits, including the following:
The Keto Diet is Excellent for Weight Loss
The keto diet is a high-fat, moderate protein, and low-carb diet. The ratio is normally at 70% to 80% fat, 10% to 20% protein, and 5% to 10% carbohydrates. The drastic reduction in carbohydrates results in significant weight loss. This loss of weight is initially due to water loss. But as the body goes to ketosis, a state where the body turns to fat instead of carbs for energy, the weight loss becomes more substantial. Aside from enhancing weight loss, studies show that the keto diet can help regulate blood sugar levels, improve total cholesterol, and normalize blood pressure.
Keto Australia for Children and Adults with Epilepsy
Studies have shown that the keto diet can be helpful in managing the seizures of children and adults suffering from epilepsy. Aside from reducing the severity and frequency of the seizures, it also has other positive effects.
However, it is important to note that the diet should be very specialised to have the desired effect. It must be administered by a trained medical practitioner to ensure that it is safe and effective. It also works best for certain types of seizures, especially those from myoclonic-astatic epilepsy, Dravet Syndrome, West Syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis.
The Keto Diet for People with Type 2 Diabetes
Based on research, people with type 2 diabetes can safely lose weight and lower their blood sugar levels by following a keto diet. In a study done for a period of one year, people with type 2 diabetes needed less medication, lost some weight, and had lower A1c towards the end.
People who are resistant to insulin could also benefit greatly from the keto diet. This is because the body will produce and absorb less insulin when under the state of ketosis.
Keto Australia May Help with Cancer
Although the amount of information is limited for now, there is early evidence suggesting that the keto diet may help in treating some forms of cancer. Scientists believe that the lack of sugar from the high-fat diet starves the tumors.
Cancer cells get a large part of their energy from carbohydrates by breaking them down into simple sugars. Without them, the cancer cells won’t be able to grow, at least in theory. If the keto diet is followed by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and other forms of treatment, the possibility of them succeeding is increased.
Possible Side Effects
Some people experience constipation when following the keto diet. This is due to the low fibre consumption. Others experience vomiting and lack of energy, but these symptoms subside over time.