The Keto Transition: What to Expect When Your Body Adapts
When you drastically change your diet, your body is bound to react. And for those who embark on a ketogenic lifestyle, this reaction can be a bit unsettling. It’s natural to wonder why a diet meant to improve health can leave you feeling under the weather.
The Root of the Issue: A Shift in Fuel Sources
Our bodies are wired to run on glucose, derived from carbohydrates. So, when you suddenly cut carbs and increase fat intake, your body needs to adapt to a new energy source. This transition can be a bit rocky, leading to a cluster of symptoms reminiscent of the flu.
The Keto Flu: What to Expect
As your brain adjusts to running on ketones, you may experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Brain fog and fatigue
- Headaches and nausea
- Bad breath, sweat, and urine
These symptoms are a result of your brain adapting to the new energy source while dealing with plummeting electrolyte levels (sodium, magnesium, and potassium) due to water weight loss. The unusual smells are typically caused by acetone, a byproduct of ketone metabolism, being released from your body.
The Good News: It’s Temporary
While the keto flu can be unpleasant, it’s reassuring to know that most people start feeling better within a few days to a week. If you persevere through this initial phase, you’ll be rewarded with the numerous health benefits associated with a ketogenic lifestyle.
What’s Next?
Once you’ve navigated the keto flu, you can start enjoying the advantages of this diet, from increased energy to improved weight management. To help you stay on track, explore our collection of keto-friendly recipes and snack ideas.
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