There is a lot to think about these days when it comes to your health. Common flu symptoms, for example, could indicate a COVID-19 infection. But it could also be a result of your new diet.
In the past few years, countless people from all age groups have flocked to a keto diet. It’s popular and effective weight loss, while others use it in an attempt to manage blood sugar or heart disease. But it can also make you feel sick. Especially in the early stages.
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The first few weeks of a ketogenic diet, which is a very high fat/low carb diet, can bring on flu-like symptoms. The so-called “keto-flu” is marked by aches and pains, fatigue, headache, nausea, and mental fog.
Because the diet requires such a massive alteration from the way most people eat, the complete metabolic switch can send some shock to the system. Cutting out your body’s main energy source (carbohydrates) to utilize fat is not always a smooth transition.
But is it even worth it?
A keto diet can promote weight loss if it’s done properly, which means getting about 70-80% of daily calories from fat, 10-20% from protein, and 5-10% from fat.
There may also be some benefits for diabetics, as research has shown it can improve insulin sensitivity. Other studies have shown it can improve HDL and could reverse the course of type-2 diabetes by better controlling blood sugar. Work has also shown it may benefit people with type-1 diabetes.
But does it mean that the keto flu, or a keto diet, is worth it? It depends. If you decide to try it, it’s essential to monitor what type of fat you’re getting. Limiting saturated fats is likely to be beneficial, so focusing on “healthy fats” from plant-based items is ideal.
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Maybe instead of going keto and trying a diet, taking a look at overall eating habits is the best way to go. A diverse array of foods offer everything you need, and whole grains, fruit, and vegetables are all fiber-rich carbohydrates that are virtually eliminated from keto.
In any event, if you’re feeling ill and are a few weeks into a keto diet, consider the fact that it could be the cause.
If you are experiencing a fever, runny nose, or dry cough, call your doctor for a checkup or coronavirus test.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
