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HEALTH – You have certainly heard about the ketogenic diet, or "keto diet". We are currently seeing the spread of Pinterest and Instagram accounts entirely dedicated to this new fashion, which includes among its followers major celebrities such as Halle Berry and Kourtney Kardashian.

But before trying it on your turn, better understand how it consists, how to proceed and, above all, what doctors and nutritionists say about it

What is the ketogenic diet?

This is a food program based on contributions to carbohydrates very low or even zero. The body thus enters a state of ketosis consisting of producing energy by burning only fat. Like any other technique, the majority of ketogenic diets limit ingested amounts. But in this case, the type of food eaten is just as essential.

So, what is allowed? Go for free on fish and seafood, vegetables low in carbohydrates (forget carrots and potatoes!), Cheese, meat and poultry, eggs, natural yogurts and, of course, lipids. What you need to forget: fruits, grains and products (including bread and pasta), legumes and anything that may contain added sugars.

The distribution of your calories should be as follows: 75% fat, 20% protein and 5% carbohydrates. This is very far from Western eating habits, so the transition can be difficult.

Under the control of a doctor, the ketogenic diet can be an effective way to lose weight.

Despite the challenge it presents, the ketogenic diet shows proven results – at least in the short term. According to a 2014 study, published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, "the ketogenic diet, managed by a health professional, can be an effective tool for the treatment of obesity." The essential point to remember: to avoid any complication, it is imperative to be followed by a doctor throughout the process.

According to Dr. Nancy Rahnama, intern and nutrition specialist in Los Angeles, "the ketogenic diet is very effective for rapid weight loss, as long as it is conducted under conditions that will prevent any risk. " Which brings us to the bad side of things …

The Downside: Ketogenic Influenza

Like all health trends – especially those that are based on restrictions – this has aroused worries within the medical profession. Professionals doubt that it can offer a real life balance in the long term, without endangering the body.

Dr. Amnon Beniaminovitz, cardiologist at the New York office Manhattan Cardiology, reports that at the moment to adopt these new eating habits, some people may be really in trouble – a phenomenon called the "ketogenic flu."

"It is common to see various symptoms such as headaches, severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, difficulty concentrating (foggy brain), a drop in motivation or an irritable mood. "

These same manifestations are found in people trying to stop the soda or caffeine, which brings some to bring the diet closer to a form of detox cure.

Kristin Kirkpatrick, dietitian in Denver and nutrition expert for the Lose It! weight loss program, has tested it herself in order to know from experience what his patients can go through. According to her, the "ketogenic flu" is not a myth, but it is essential to persevere to obtain results.

"The beginnings can be really difficult, to say that one is hungry is a euphemism!" , she reports to American HuffPost . "But once the body is accustomed to a low glucose intake, we get a feeling close to euphoria."

Long-term studies are still too rare.

Ginger Hultin, dietitian and nutritionist in Seattle and coach for wellness company Arivale, worries about lack of studies going beyond first positive results to look at long-term effects of ketogenic diet.

"This food program could cause kidney problems, deficiencies and a number of side effects including constipation, dehydration, fatigue and nausea.Everyone should weigh the pros and cons with the advice of their doctor, "she says.

High lipid intake may be detrimental to cardiovascular health

The ketogenic diet encourages its followers to consume products they are generally advised to limit, including via

"As a general rule, [il] relies on a large amount of animal foods, which contain a lot of saturated fats and proteins," says Dr. Nicole Harkin, cardiologist, lipidologist and Lecturer at New York University. "This can cause a rise in LDL cholesterol, a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease."

Beyond weight loss, there are other potential benefits.

Studies have shown that the ketogenic diet can have a positive impact on people with epilepsy. It is being offered as a treatment by Stony Brook Medicine, where Dr. Josephine Connolly-Schoonen, Director of Nutrition and Nutrition Management Specialist for Obesity and Chronic Diseases, is practicing. "This dietary program is particularly effective in reducing seizure frequency in epileptics," she confirms in HuffPost .

Small-scale studies have also shown promising results in Women with polycystic ovary syndrome

It also helps to stabilize blood glucose levels, an essential factor for diabetics.

Studies have even shown that very low carbohydrate diets have their usefulness in the prevention and treatment of several cancers; on this point, further research is needed.

In any case, this trend seems well established – and in the short term, with the follow-up of a health professional, it can actually lead to weight loss. Further studies are awaited to identify both its possible uses against certain diseases and the health risks it could cause. Be that as it may, never forget to consult your doctor before starting a new diet or other major lifestyle change.

This article, originally published on the American HuffPost, translated by Guillemette Allard-Bares for Fast For Word

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