Keto diet for weight loss:
Why the low carb lifestyle is so effective
The keto diet for weight loss has gained a worldwide reputation, especially for the dramatic results people have achieved with low-carb living.
As a health and weight loss coach, Tony Packenas of Keto Smart believes losing weight shouldn’t be hard work or complicated. It should be simple and easy and shouldn’t be about counting calories or weighing food. Yet many people really struggle to lose weight and keep it off, because diets are simply that – a quick fix that is unsustainable.
Why most diets don’t work
Because traditional diets are low in calories, they slow the metabolism down, which means when you cheat or quit, you often put the weight back on faster and potentially end up heavier than you were when you started.
Not all calories are equal. It’s not as simple as calories in and calories out. Most diets set you up for failure because they are based on this theory. Traditional diets are restrictive and low in calories, meaning you are always feeling hungry, inevitably forcing you to cheat or take short cuts. Of course, it isn’t reasonable to eat unlimited calories, but a sustainable diet focuses on the quality of the calories, and how full and satisfied they make you feel.
Keto diet weight loss: why it works and why it lasts
Eating a ketogenic diet is not about dieting. It’s about eating foods that will see you burning fat more quickly, staying fuller for longer, and not feeling as if you’re giving up foods you love to be thinner.
A ketogenic diet gets rid of your cravings, keeps your metabolism working and is sustainable – because it really is a way of life.
“I think there's a misconception out there that the keto diet is really restrictive,” says Tony. “Everything is going to be challenging in the initial week or two, but you need to be flexible and make the right decisions so you can enjoy life – including going out to restaurants or to a party with friends.”
If you’re curious about the keto weight loss timeline, keep in mind that the effects of a keto diet depend on several factors, including how insulin resistant you are. “Even if you're already really healthy and fit, you're not just going to switch to ketosis the first week,” says Tony. “It takes time – but I’ve seen amazing results.”
Tony also emphasises the importance of exercise for sustainable weight loss and increasing muscle mass and bone density for long-term wellbeing. As part of a holistic plan, he can also provide exercises tailored to individuals to help achieve their health and weight loss goals.