Low Carb vs. Keto Diet – Which is Best For You?
Trying to decide between a low-carb vs. keto diet? Both diets can help people manage their weight and blood sugar. They have differences, so it’s essential to understand them before choosing which is right for you.
What is Low-Carb Diet?
A low-carb diet involves reducing the number of carbohydrates or carbs that you eat regularly. The exact amount depends on individual preferences and health needs. Most plans suggest limiting carb intake to no more than 50 to 150 grams per day. Eating loads of protein and healthy fats can maximize the potential benefits of this approach.
What is a Keto Diet?
The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet. It has become increasingly popular with nutrition professionals and individuals looking to improve their health. Keto diets reduce carb intake to as little as 5% of total calories. The majority of calories come from fat and protein sources. Because it is such an extreme approach, following a keto diet requires careful planning. You should not undertake it without consulting a licensed healthcare provider.
Eating Keto the Right Way
The reason I wrote this post is to point out the fact that there are plenty of people who also eat the Keto diet incorrectly. In some extreme cases, people have died, but please don’t be discouraged from considering this diet. It has saved many lives by keeping pre-diabetics from becoming diabetics. It is also considered a great companion diet for those fighting cancer.
Foods to Eat and Avoid on Each Diet
When it comes to the specifics of a low-carb vs. keto diet, what you eat is just as important as what you don’t. Both diets focus on higher protein and healthy fats while reducing sugar, processed carbohydrates, and refined grains. On a low-carb diet, you may still consume some whole grains, fruit, and starchy vegetables in moderation. On the keto diet, however, carbs are restricted more strictly, with carbohydrate intake typically limited to less than 50 grams daily or fewer.
How to Add Carbohydrates to the Keto Diet
The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that is typically very strict regarding carbohydrate intake. You can add the right carbs to help provide your body with enough energy, fiber, and minerals without sending you out of ketosis even on a restricted diet. Some of the best sources for adding healthy carbs to the keto diet include nutrient-dense vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, leafy greens, peppers, and mushrooms. Small amounts of berries are also allowed on the paleo diet as a sweet treat or topping for yogurt or chia pudding.
Which Diet is Best for You?
A great way to begin either of these diets is to download the Cronometer app. This app will help you track net carbs, proteins, carbs, and fats. Foods can be tracked by scanning or entering the items into the food diary. Along with drinking enough water, you should eat in a way that helps your body burn fat calories. Controlling your carb intake will help you figure that out. So does your body do better eating 50-150 grams or 50 grams of carbs? Try both diets to see.