The Hcg Diet Plan is a doctor-supervised, medical weight loss program that combines hormone therapy with whole food eating. Menu options are heavy in vegetables and lean proteins, as well as fruit options and limited grains. Allowed calories on the protocol, range from 500 to 1600 calories, depending on the specific protocol followed.

The very specific food list can teach healthy eating, portion control and establish healthy relationships with food. While the protocol was initially outlined by Dr. Simeons, modern day variations have become increasingly popular. This guide, focuses on the original protocol, with modern adaptations noted by the editor.

Dr. Albert Simeons was a world-renowned endocrinologist recognized for his pioneering work in tropical diseases. He was awarded the Red Cross Order of Merit for his advancement in the research and treatment of Malaria and honored for a number of research-breakthroughs. While working with severely malnourished women in India, Dr. Simeons discovered a link between the Hcg hormone, and its ability to utilize stored fat to nourish and deliver healthy children. After years of research, he was able to develop a protocol that utilized this effect of Hcg, to treat obesity, and published the groundbreaking manuscript, Pounds and Inches.

Here are a few basics for those who are ready to jump right in and start with the plan immediately. With these simple articles, you can easily get started today. Take note however, that anyone new to the plan, should read through this guide thoroughly, and NEVER proceed with the protocol without consulting a physician (FDA approved telemedicine Hcg programs are listed below.)

The Hcg Diet is a medical weight loss plan, and should ONLY be prescribed and overseen by a licensed medical doctor. While it can be challenging to find a local physician that specializes in Hcg hormone therapy, there are a few options available online, through FDA-approved telemedicine companies in the USA. These sources provide complete prescription Hcg kits for injections, drops and tablets/pills/pellets, and provide expert guidance throughout the duration of treatment.

Preparing for the plan, is absolutely essential and should not be skipped. Much like building a house, you want a solid foundation and to be prepared for the steps and challenges that come along with the protocol. In fact, most challenges can be avoided completely by reading the following articles before getting started.

These tools can be beneficial for those starting out on the plan for the first time. They are all free to download. We will be adding more here, so please check back often.

The Hcg protocol consists of 3 phases, with a newer 4th phase that has been added to the original protocol, being coined as P4, longterm maintenance. Each phase is extremely important and should not be skipped. The Loading Phase (P1) is 2 (in some cases, 3 days,) while Phase 2, the weight loss phase, can vary in length depending on your protocols specifics. For example, one Hcg sources protocol can differ from another such as 26 days or 29 days. Phase 3, the Transition Phase, lasts 3 weeks and is an expansion of increased calories and foods that do not include any sugars or starches. The 4th phase refers to life after the diets first 3 phases and includes a lifestyle of healthy choices learned while on the protocol. This includes exercise, portion control, clean eating and healthy living in general.

The HCG Diet Protocol consists of separate phases. Together, they are referred to as a round. Dieters typically lose 18 to 25 lbs per round (approximately 1 month.) If more weight is needed to be lost, there is a 3 week break after the final phase, and thenanother round is started. Rinse and repeat until goal weight is reached.

HCG Diet protocols include the following4 phases. Note on protocol variations: Some protocols actually include 3 and 4 as the same Maintenance phase and have only 3 phases total. Other protocols, including Dr. Simeons Original protocol, do not include phase 1, loading phase. This can be a personal preference, however we will say that the following phase example, has shown great results from our readers, and has certainly appeared to be the most successful.

Phase 1 is the loading phase. Also known as the preparation phase. This phase is not on all HCG Diet protocols but it is on most and is very popular. During this two day phase, the dieter eats as much healthy fats as possible in preparation for starting the next phase. They are also welcome to eat as many cheat foods as they would like, with the intention of satisfying cravings prior to beginning the next phase where these foods will not be allowed. Read more

Phase 2 of the HCG Diet is the weight loss phase. This begins on day 3 of taking HCG where the dieter adheres toa specifiedcalorie intake and carefully selected food list. For most dieters, this is the most challenging phase of the plan because there is very little room for error. Read more:

Phase 3 of the HCG Dietis at the end of HCG is discontinued and the same foods from phase 2 are still eaten, but increased slowly. In this stage, this is areintroduction period where calories and foods are slowly adjusted to maintain weight loss. Read more:

Phase 4 of the HCG Diet is the phase of continuing weight maintenance for life-long health and fitness.This is an essential part of the HCG diet and it actually begins during Phase 2. This is where you will begin to build the skills necessary for lifetime weight maintenance and healthy living. For example; reading labels as a habit (this will become 2nd nature and shouldntstop once you reach your weight loss goals. Also, portion control and learning to listen to your body. Read more about these skills and implement them starting NOW:

The absolute best (&Free!) HCG Diet tips for reaching your weight loss goals safe and fast!

Hcg weight loss foods and recipes are the backbone of the Hcg weight loss program. Not only do the allowed foods help you to lose weight, but they also help get our body into a healthy state.

It is important to understand that while the Hcg hormone does NOT make you lose weight, it does changehowyour body loses weight, and creates a reaction in your body that allows for the rapid weight loss. It is the carefully selected Hcg Diet food list that is responsible for your weight loss; the Hcg just allows your body to continue to burn fat when it would normally go into starvation mode under the calorie restricted diet.

This is good news! This means the Hcg weight loss plan can be surprisingly versatile with the right recipes, and can work with any number of menus, foods sensitivities. The allowed foods are clear of processed and prepared foods and carefully measured for portion control. Instead of processed foods, the food list focuses on clean eating, and consists mostly of vegetables and healthy portions of lean protein, along with some, but limited, carbohydrates. To be clear, this is NOT a ketosis diet when done correctly, and in fact the amount of vegetables and fruit permitted, do not allow the body to go into ketosis. Compared to ketosis diets, this particular approach has been shown to average much higher weight loss rates that range from .5 to 1.5 pounds per day.

In a nutshell: The Hcg Diet allowed foods and guidelines focus on portion control, increased vegetables and proteins, and a food list that is comprised of clean, unprocessed foods.

The Original HCG Diet is known for its restrictive and unforgiving500 calorie VLCD (very low calorie diet.) Some versions of the diet have evolved to allowfor an HCG Diet expanded food list.

Learn what to eat on the HCG Diet and how to eat: Portion sizes, HCG Diet-friendly recipes for all phases, foods lists, plus HCG Diet cooking and shopping tips.

Learning to cook on the diet, can be a struggle for some patients, however, it is also an excellent opportunity to learn how to cook new foods that are clean, nutritious and healthy. Since the protocol does not allow foods that are processed or prepared (bye bye alcohol, fast food and frozen dinners) this can be an excellent path to learning how to prepare meals that will nourish your body, and make long term weight maintenance easy.

Take a look at our recipe section, and discover amazing Hcg Diet Recipes that include Southwestern chicken, strawberry cupcakes, garlic baked shrimp, mouth-watering grilled asparagus, and chai beverages. While it may be intimidating to look at the allowed foods list and feel limited, it wont take long before you realize just how versatile and delishous it can be.

We have also included a list of our best recipe and cooking articles that cover everything from how to cook on the protocol, spices to use to increase your metabolism, tips for dining out and tips for eating during special occasions.

Sample menus and menu tips for the HCG Diet.

Hcg Diet Info has put together a complete guide to buying Hcg Kits and Programs online: How to Buy Hcg injections online (Drops and Pellets too.)

In the last few years, the FDA-approved telemedicine industry has grown and allowed doctors to prescribe and care for individuals wanting to follow the protocol. You can now safely buy Hcg kits online, that come with a complete program overseen by a medical doctor and Hcg weight loss experts and nutritionists. This has grown to be one of the most beneficial medical weight loss programs in the world now.

Tips for buying Hcg and Hcg weight loss programs: One of the first things to take into consideration when buying Hcg, is which form of Hcg you feel comfortable with, how soon you would like to start your diet, and the level of support you will need. The latter tends to be the biggest difference between various Hcg sources with some companies offering minimal support (better for veterans and pros that want to buy a bare bones Hcg kit to save money) and other companies offering extensive diet support, while yet another offering custom dosage and protocol support, and complete medical doctor hand-holding, along with a year of nutritionist services (even after the diet is completed.) These may seem like small differences but they can add up to be an extreme value for your money, as well as offer peace of mind.

The sources recommended in Hcg Diet Infooffer each of the acceptable choices that can be used with the original Hcg weight loss protocol: Hcg injections, Hcg Diet Drops (Prescription or Homeopathic), and Prescription Hcg Pellets. The Hcg Buy Guide also offers answers to dozens of frequently asked questions about buying Hcg Kits and Hcg weight loss programs online. Please note: Over the counter hormone free diet drops should NOT be used with the original protocol and can be dangerous if combined with the VLCD (very low calorie menu.) These over the counter drops have been addressed and dismissed largely by the FDA for good reason- they are NOT safe with the original protocol. Read: How to know if my Hcg Drops are Real, for more information.

Exercise is an important part of healthy living, even without wanting to lose weight. While the original protocol insistedexercise was not necessary, most of the evolvedprotocols include and encourage a consistent exercise routine simply because it is a healthy lifestyle option and the benefits are many.

For those currently active, in most cases, it is ok to continue as usual, although some may find it useful to lighten their workout for the first week of being on the protocol. For those who are new to working out, a low impact daily workout of at least 20 minutes a day is recommended to start. Recommended activities include: walking (brisk), swimming, yoga (no hot yoga practices yet), and pilates. Level of activity is extremely light the first week of phase 2 on the HCG Diet and increases as the individual feels ready. It is highly advised that the chosen workouts are something enjoyable, and not something you dread doing every day.

The HCG Diet can be complicated and so specific,you are almost certain to experiencechallenges along the way. While it might not seem welcome, It is a large part of the learning process for long term managementsuccess. There will be temptation to stray from your planned diet, and there may even be times when you stray by accident. Yes, it can happen: Aunt Sally forgot to tell you she adds sugar toher famous holiday vinaigrettedressing, or the restaurant neglected to tell you theres bread crumb mixed right into the hamburger patty which you so carefully ordered without a bun. Of course theres the good old oops, I assumed that hot sauce was just hot sauce and didnt realize it had 9 grams of sugar. Theres your first lesson; always double-check ingredientsand dont eat it unless youre sure. A better lesson if you cant see all ingredients, dont eat it! The less processed foods you eat, the better. See, its all part of the big picture and building the skillsto be fit and thin for life.

Dr. Simeons manuscript, Pounds and Inches is the original book that outlines every detail of the Hcg weight loss protocol. Dr. Simeons has been very specific in his words, outlining all aspects of the diet. This includes the original 500 calorie menu, the effects of hCG on the body, hCG dosage, how to inject hCG, how to handle stalls and plateaus, and a solid overview transitioning from phase 2 to phase 3, which many dieters can find challenging.

Regardless of which version of the protocol the patient is following, it can still be helpful to read the manuscript. Not only does this allow the Hcg dieter to understand the intention of the diet, but it can also help establish a solid foundation of preparation, and help avoid challenges by answering many of the most frequently asked questions.

Our editor has taken the time to separate the original manuscript by chapter, making it easy to navigate and locate individual topics. We also offer an MP3 audio version (audiobook) of the Pounds and Inches manuscript, as well as a PDF version. These will be automatically sent to those who sign up for our newsletter but they can also be found here:

We realize this diet can bring a lot of questions, so please feel free to visit our two pages that cover the most frequently asked questions about the diet in general, and the more specific protocol-based questions. Questions and answers include topics on dosage amounts, weight loss averages, how to inject hCG, the differences between Hcg injections, drops and pellets, and so much more. After reading these pages, feel free to take your questions to the forums, where our expert moderators and coaches, as well as the countless veterans, will be more than happy to offer their support.

Most commonly asked questions:

Have questions about the plan and protocol? Need a little support, or just want to find a friendly face to share the experience? Join ourHCG Diet Forums, the largest HCG community on the web with over 100 thousand inspired members and growing. Join our monthly coaching and support groups, get answers to all your questions from expert coaches, or find a buddy to share your Hcg weight loss journey! The HDI forums are the best place to mingle with your fellow HCG Dieters and get answers in one place. There are also over 2 million pages of priceless information and resources in these forums, easily searchable and readily at your fingertips.

More here:
HCG Diet Plan: Get to Know the *REAL* Hcg Diet - HCG Diet ...

Carbs: What Exactly Are They?

Carbohydrates (carbs) are a macronutrient found in things like starches, grains and foods high in sugar. This includes, but isnt limited to, bread, flour, rice, pasta, beans, potatoes, sugar, syrup, cereals, fruits, bagels and soda.

Carbs are broken down into glucose (a type of sugar) in our bodies for energy. Eating any kinds of carbs spikes blood sugar levels. The spike may happen faster or slower depending on the type of carb (simple or complex), but the spike will still happen.

Blood sugar spikes cause strong insulin releases to combat the spikes. Constant insulin releases result in fat storage and insulin resistance. After many years, this cycle commonly leads to prediabetes, metabolic syndrome and even type 2 diabetes9.

In a world full of sugar, cereal, pasta, burgers, French fries and large sodas, you can see how carbs can easily be overconsumed.

According to the 2014 report by the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. (86 million people) have prediabetes, a condition in which blood glucose is always high and commonly leads to type 2 diabetes and many other medical problems10.

Today, almost 1 in 10 people in the U.S. have type 2 diabetes compared to almost 1 in 40 in 1980. Fat has been blamed as the bad guy and companies have been creating low-fat and fat-free, chemically-laden alternatives of nearly every type of food in existence, yet obesity, diabetes and heart disease rates are still increasing.

Nearly 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. has type 2 diabetes, almost 4 times more than 30 years ago.

Were starting to understand that carbs in large quantities are much more harmful than previously thought, while most fats are healthy and essential.

The nutritional landscape is changing. Ketogenic diet and low carb diet groups, as well as similar dietary groups like paleo, are growing and a nutritional revolution is beginning. We are starting to realize the detrimental effects of our relationship with excess sugar and carbs.

Read the original post:
Ketogenic Diet: The Complete Beginner's Guide

Fats to Avoid / Fats to Include

Most important is to avoid fried foods, fatty foods and particular types of fats like trans fats, hydrogenated fats, partially-hydrogenated fats (read your labels) and saturated fats.

Include essential fatty acids such as flax oil and fish oil. Depending on how severe or acute your gallbladder problem is at the moment, even this may not be possible for you. Experiment slowly. You may have to be on The 30 Day Gallbladder Solution kit before you can add these. Most people, however, are able to eat small amounts. It shouldn't take more than a week on the products before you feel relief enough to try this. If you have used The Beet Recipe, you have found that those three ingredients in combination do not cause problems but help to move the stagnation in the gallbladder. I generally advise adding a teaspoon of flax oil with vinegar or lemon juice to salads as a dressing. If you are in pain, you may be able to eat only the green soup recipe for a few days.

Excerpt from:
Gallbladder Diet | Diet After Gallbladder Removal | Diet ...

Carbohydrates (carbs) are compounds that can be converted to saccharides or sugars. The two types of carbs are simple monosaccharides and complex polysaccharides. The simple carbs are those found in fruit, pasta and white sugar. The complex carbohydrates are harder to digest, making them more filling and providing the body with more energy. These complex carbs are those found in rice, vegetables and whole grain cereal and bread.

Carbohydrates account for many calories in the normal person's diet because they so readily convert to starch and then to sugar. One way to lose weight is to cut carbs out of the diet - that is, only eat food items that do not contain any carbohydrates.

If you decide to go on a diet without carb, it is important that you understand that this diet should not be one you stay on for the rest of your life. Prolonged lack of carbohydrates in your diet may cause health problems such as confusion and muscle cramping. However, a diet without carb over a short period can help you lose weight relatively quickly. In order to stay on this diet, you should know what foods are carbohydrate-free.

Fortunately, there are foods in most food groups that do not contain carbs. This makes it relatively easy to get a variety of foods when you are on a no carb diet. Some examples of foods that do not contain carbohydrates include:

Often, the hardest part of starting a new diet is planning meals during the first few days. To get started, use the menu plans below and alter them to fit your own taste. In addition to the water included at each meal, be sure to make an effort to drink a total of 64 ounces each day. Try starting each day with an 8-ounce glass of water.

Menu 1

Breakfast

2 scrambled eggs; plain yogurt (no sugar); 2 ounces of cheese; coffee or tea (no milk or sugar)

Lunch

grilled hamburger; lettuce, carrots and tomatoes as garnish; stir-fried mushrooms; 16 ounces of water

Snack

pecans, walnuts, and almonds; 16 ounces of water

Dinner

Lettuce wraps with sausage, cheese and seasonings; 1 medium sliced apple with peanut butter for dipping; 8 ounces of water

Menu 2

Breakfast

2 poached eggs; Slice of turkey ham; yogurt (no sugar); coffee or tea (no milk or sugar); carrot juice

Lunch

Tofu soup with mushrooms and seasonings of choice; uncooked asparagus; 16 ounces of water

Snack

protein bar; 16 ounces of water

Dinner

small grilled steak seasoned with salt, pepper and other herbs; salad of lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, celery, peppers, and a few almonds -- add some sugar free vinaigrette dressing; 8 ounces of water

Menu 3

Breakfast

2 egg omelet with mushrooms, onions and pork sausage; coffee or tea (no milk or sugar)

Lunch

cottage cheese and fruit; apple flax muffin; 16 ounces water

Snack

1/2 cup cantaloupe; 16 ounces water

Dinner

baked chicken; salad (as much as you want) with lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, celery, cucumbers and a small amount of vinaigrette dressing (check the label to be sure there are no carbohydrates); throw in some walnuts to add some crunch; 8 ounces water

Menu 4

Breakfast

oatmeal with raspberries and walnuts; coffee or tea (no milk or sugar); plain yogurt

Lunch

grilled chicken breast; salad with lettuce, celery, carrots, and tomatoes; 16 ounces of water

Snack

2 hard-boiled eggs with salt; 16 ounces of water

Dinner

stir fry your favorite meat with green peppers and mushrooms; fresh spinach salad with lemon juice; 8 ounces of water

Menu 5

Breakfast

1 scrambled egg mixed with sausage; plain yogurt with a few raspberries mixed in; 8 ounces of water

Lunch

broccoli and green salad with vinaigrette dressing; add a few walnuts for additional crunch; 16 ounces of water

Snack

sliced celery dipped in peanut butter; 16 ounces of water

Dinner

grilled salmon; asparagus; 1/2 cup cantaloupe; 8 ounces of water

See the rest here:
No Carb Foods and Diet Plan | MD-Health.com

Amino Acids

Amino acids are the chemical units or building blocks of the body that make up proteins. Protein substances make up the muscles, tendons, organs, glands, nails, and hair, and the growth, repair, and maintenance of all cells are dependent upon them. Next to water, protein makes up the greatest portion of our body weight. The amino acids included are as follows:

Arginine aids in weight loss, as it facilitates an increase in muscle mass and a reduction of body fat. It also assists in the release of growth hormones that are crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair.*

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid found in muscles; it helps build and maintain muscle tissue, and it also helps prevent muscle wasting, decreases sugar cravings, and the desire for alcohol.*

Glycine retards muscle degeneration and it improves glycogen storage, freeing up glucose for energy needs.*

Ornithine helps to prompt the release of growth hormones that promote the metabolism of excess body fat (this effect is enhanced if combined with Arginine).*

Valine is needed for muscle metabolism and coordination, tissue repair, and for the maintenance of proper nitrogen balance in the body; it is also used as an energy source by muscle tissue.*

Serine is needed for the proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, the growth of muscle, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system.*

Tyrosine is important to overall metabolism; it is a precursor of adrenaline and dopamine, which regulate mood and stimulate metabolism and the nervous system; it also acts as a mood elevator, suppresses the appetite, and helps reduce body fat.*

Glutamic Acid is an excitatory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord; it is important in the metabolism of sugars and fats.*

These other natural supplements are also included to aid in increasing energy, stamina and endurance, reducing fat, improving mood, and providing additional nutrients to support the PS1000 plan.*

Maca is a Peruvian root known to help improve energy and stamina, improve the quality of sleep, and reduce stress. It contains many fatty acids, minerals and vitamins such as calcium, magnesium, silica, amino acids, antioxidants, alkaloids and sterols; Maca can be an aid in any diet.*

Beta-Alanine is a naturally occurring beta amino acid that promotes high energy levels and increases endurance. It does this by promoting carnosine, a substance that has a critical role in muscle endurance because it protects against muscle failure. Beta-Alanine has been shown to help increase strength and reduce body fat.*

Rhodiola, more commonly known as goldenrod, is a plant that is known to improve physical and mental performance, reduce fatigue, enhance mood, and improve endurance. Rhodiola is also known for helping to strengthen the nervous system, enhance memory, aid weight reduction, and reduce recovery time for illness or injury.*

African Mango (Irvingia gabonensis) enhances the activity of a the hormone Leptin that plays a crucial role in controlling appetite and optimizing metabolism.*

Glucomannan is a soluble, fermentable, and highly viscous dietary fiber derived from the root of Amorphophallus konjac (aka elephant yam or konjac plant) and is native to Asia. When consumed, it absorbs water in the digestive tract, reducing absorption of carbohydrates and cholesterol by the body, supporting the use of glucomannan for cholesterol reduction, diabetes, and weight loss.*

The vitamin B12 Complex is added to the PS1000 plan to increase energy and raise the metabolism. B vitamins help the body convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose), which is burned to produce energy. These B vitamins, often referred to as B complex vitamins, also help the body metabolize fats and protein.*

Methyl B-12, derived from methylcobalamin and has a much higher bioavailability than the form most widely available in supplements, cyanocobalamin.*

Their B6 is derived from Pyridoxal 5 Phosphate (P-5-P) and is five times more absorbable than other B6s. B6 is required for proper absorption of vitamin B12.*

Niacin (Vitamin B3) known to help produce hormones that are beneficial to the body. Niacin helps to improve circulation and reduce cholesterols and is important to the health of the nervous system, digestive system, skin, eyes, and hair.*

Vitamin E is added, as the conversion of B12 into its biologically active form requires vitamin E.*

Zinc supports the production of hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor in the stomach, both of which are needed to convert some of the B12 from food sources.*

Potassium is essential for proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system.*

View original post here:
PS1000 Program Review - Is It Effective ...

Recently, many of my patients have been asking about a ketogenic diet. Is a ketogenic diet safe? Would you recommend it? Despite the recent hype, a ketogenic diet is not something new. In medicine, we have been using it for almost 100 years to treat drug-resistant epilepsy, especially in children. In the 1970s, Dr. Atkins popularized his very-low-carbohydrate diet for weight loss that began with a very strict two-week ketogenic phase. Over the years, other fad diets incorporated a similar approach for weight loss.

In essence, it is a diet that causes the body to release ketones into the bloodstream. Most cells prefer to use blood sugar, which comes from carbohydrates, as the bodys main source of energy. In the absence of circulating blood sugar from food, we start breaking down stored fat into molecules called ketone bodies (the process is called ketosis). Once you reach ketosis, most cells will use ketone bodies to generate energy until we start eating carbohydrates again. The shift, from using circulating glucose to breaking down stored fat as a source of energy, usually happens over two to four days of eating fewer than 20 to 50 grams of carbohydrates per day. Keep in mind that this is a highly individualized process, and some people need a more restricted diet to start producing enough ketones.

Because it lacks carbohydrates, a ketogenic diet is rich in proteins and fats. It typically includes plenty of meats, eggs, processed meats, sausages, cheeses, fish, nuts, butter, oils, seeds, and fibrous vegetables. Because it is so restrictive, it is really hard to follow over the long run. Carbohydrates normally account for at least 50% of the typical American diet. One of the main criticisms of this diet is that many people tend to eat too much protein and poor-quality fats from processed foods, with very few fruits and vegetables. Patients with kidney disease need to be cautious because this diet could worsen their condition. Additionally, some patients may feel a little tired in the beginning, while some may have bad breath, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and sleep problems.

We have solid evidence showing that a ketogenic diet reduces seizures in children, sometimes as effectively as medication. Because of these neuroprotective effects, questions have been raised about the possible benefits for other brain disorders such as Parkinsons, Alzheimers, multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, autism, and even brain cancer. However, there are no human studies to support recommending ketosis to treat these conditions.

Weight loss is the primary reason my patients use the ketogenic diet. Previous research shows good evidence of a faster weight loss when patients go on a ketogenic or very low carbohydrate diet compared to participants on a more traditional low-fat diet, or even a Mediterranean diet. However, that difference in weight loss seems to disappear over time.

A ketogenic diet also has been shown to improve blood sugar control for patients with type 2 diabetes, at least in the short term. There is even more controversy when we consider the effect on cholesterol levels. A few studies show some patients have increase in cholesterol levels in the beginning, only to see cholesterol fall a few months later. However, there is no long-term research analyzing its effects over time on diabetes and high cholesterol.

A ketogenic diet could be an interesting alternative to treat certain conditions, and may accelerate weight loss. But it is hard to follow and it can be heavy on red meat and other fatty, processed, and salty foods that are notoriously unhealthy. We also do not know much about its long-term effects, probably because its so hard to stick with that people cant eat this way for a long time. It is also important to remember that yo-yo diets that lead to rapid weight loss fluctuation are associated with increased mortality. Instead of engaging in the next popular diet that would last only a few weeks to months (for most people that includes a ketogenic diet), try to embrace change that is sustainable over the long term. A balanced, unprocessed diet, rich in very colorful fruits and vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole grains, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and lots of water seems to have the best evidence for a long, healthier, vibrant life.

Read more from the original source:
Ketogenic diet: Is the ultimate low-carb diet good for you ...

The benefits of a ketogenic diet are similar to those of other low-carb diets, but its more powerful than liberal low-carb diets. Think of keto as a super-charged low-carb diet, maximizing the benefits.

Turning your body into a fat-burning machine has obvious benefits for weight loss. Fat burning is vastly increased, while insulin the fat-storing hormone levels drop greatly. This creates ideal circumstances in which body fat loss can occur, without hunger.

More than 30 high-quality scientific studies show that, compared to other diets, low-carb and keto diets result in more effective weight loss.

On a keto diet youll gain a new control over your appetite. When your body burns fat 24-7, it has constant access to weeks or months of stored energy, dramatically reducing feelings of hunger. Its a very common experience, and studies prove it.

This makes it easy to eat less and lose excess weight just dont eat until youre hungry. This makes intermittent fasting easy, super-charging efforts to reverse type 2 diabetes and speeding up weight loss. Plus, youll save tons of time and money by not having to snack all the time. Many people only feel the need to eat twice a day (often skipping breakfast), and some just once a day.

Not having to fight feelings of hunger can also potentially help with problems like sugar or food addiction, and possibly some eating disorders, like bulimia, as well. At least feeling satisfied can be part of the solution. Food can stop being an enemy and become your friend or simply fuel, whatever you prefer.

Ketosis results in a steady flow of fuel (ketones) to the brain, and you avoid big blood sugar swings. This often results in the experience of improved focus and concentration. Any brain fog will be long gone!

A lot of people use ketogenic diets specifically for increased mental performance. Also, many people experience an increase in energy when in ketosis.

On keto, the brain doesnt need carbs. Its fueled 24-7 by ketones, a perfect brain fuel for focus and energy.

A ketogenic diet controls blood sugar levels, and is excellent for reversing type 2 diabetes. This has been proven in studies. It makes perfect sense since keto lowers blood-sugar levels and reduces the negative impact of high insulin levels.

As a keto diet may even reverse existing type 2 diabetes, its likely to be even more effective at preventing it, or reversing pre-diabetes.

How to reverse type 2 diabetes

150+ success stories

There are many studies showing that low-carb diets improve important risk factors for heart disease, including the cholesterol profile (HDL, triglycerides), while total cholesterol levels are usually impacted minimally. Its also typical to see improved blood sugar levels, insulin levels and blood pressure.

These commonly improved markers are connected to something called metabolic syndrome, and improvements in weight, waist circumference, diabetes type 2 reversal etc.

My health markers after 10 years on a keto diet

Keto can result in a calmer stomach, less (or no) gas, less cramps and pains, etc.

For quite a few people this is the top benefit, and it usually only takes a day or two to experience it. Learn more

Ketogenic diets can vastly increase your physical endurance by giving you constant access to all the energy of your fat stores.

The bodys supply of stored carbohydrates (glycogen) only lasts for a couple of hours of intense exercise, or less. But your fat stores carry enough energy to easily last for weeks or even months.

How to maximize endurance on a keto diet

The ketogenic diet is a proven and effective medical therapy for epilepsy that has been used since the 1920s. Traditionally it was used primarily for children, but recently adults have benefited from it as well.

Using a ketogenic diet in epilepsy can allow people to take less or no anti-epileptic drugs, while still remaining seizure-free. This reduces drug side effects and thus increases mental performance. More

The benefits above are the most common ones. But there are others that are potentially even more surprising and at least for some people life changing. Did you know that a keto diet often normalizes blood pressure, results in less acne, controls migraine, might help with certain mental health issues and helps with a lot more?

Follow the links below for more knowledge, stories and science:

Theres even science-based speculation that a ketogenic diet could increase longevity and help treat or reduce the risk of cancer. Its also being used as an experimental treatment for some people with Parkinsons disease.

Were always happy to receive stories from people whove used a keto diet to revolutionize their health. Weve been sent thousands of such stories, and we publish some of the most amazing ones over 250 so far for anyone to read.

Here are a few of them:

Keto and intermittent fasting: "I am completely blown away by the changes"

How Melissa lost 100 pounds with a keto diet, and kept it off for 15 years

Reversing type 2 diabetes in only 2.5 months with keto and fasting

Minus 125 pounds and no more binge eating on a keto diet

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A Ketogenic Diet for Beginners - The Ultimate Keto Guide ...

Your brain also has its own senseof what you should weigh,no matter what you consciously believe.This is called your set point,but that's a misleading term,because it's actually a rangeof about 10 or 15 pounds.You can use lifestyle choices to move your weightup and down within that range,but it's much, much harder to stay outside of it.The hypothalamus, the part of the brainthat regulates body weight,there are more than a dozen chemical signalsin the brain that tell your body to gain weight,more than another dozen thattell your body to lose it,and the system works like a thermostat,responding to signals from the bodyby adjusting hunger, activity and metabolism,to keep your weight stable as conditions change.That's what a thermostat does, right?It keeps the temperature in your house the sameas the weather changes outside.Now you can try to change the temperaturein your house by opening a window in the winter,but that's not going to changethe setting on the thermostat,which will respond by kicking on the furnaceto warm the place back up.Your brain works exactly the same way,responding to weight loss by using powerful toolsto push your body backto what it considers normal.If you lose a lot of weight,your brain reacts as if you were starving,and whether you started out fat or thin,your brain's response is exactly the same.We would love to think that your brain could tellwhether you need to lose weight or not,but it can't.If you do lose a lot of weight,you become hungry,and your muscles burn less energy.Dr. Rudy Leibel of Columbia Universityhas found that people who have lost10 percent of their body weightburn 250 to 400 calories lessbecause their metabolism is suppressed.That's a lot of food.This means that a successful dietermust eat this much less foreverthan someone of the same weightwho has always been thin.

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Sandra Aamodt: Why dieting doesn't usually work | TED Talk ...