Imagine this scenario: You're at a family wedding, and your favourite saree no longer fits. You're feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable in your skin. You've tried fasting and skipping meals, but nothing has worked. That's where the ketogenic (keto) diet comes in.
The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that has become mainstream for people looking to get in shape. The reason why the keto diet has gained popularity in recent years is because of its ability to deliver results from day one, but it can be challenging to follow in India where traditional cuisine is often high in carbohydrates. So if you want to achieve the best shape of your life, let us first understand why the keto diet is so popular and what problems a person may face when following a keto diet in India.
Why Is Keto So Popular?
1) Weight Loss
One of the primary reasons for the popularity of the keto diet is its effectiveness in weight loss. By drastically reducing carbohydrates and increasing healthy fats, the body enters a state of ketosis where it burns stubborn body fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
2) Improved Health Markers
Following a keto diet has been shown to improve various health markers, including blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure. By reducing carbohydrate intake, the body produces less insulin, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Also Read: 5-Day Keto Diet Plan: Top Foods To Eat Things You Should Know
3) Increased Energy And Mental Clarity
Many people report feeling more energised and mentally clear when following a keto diet. This is because the body is using fat for energy, which can provide a more stable source of fuel compared to the ups and downs of glucose from carbohydrates.
Challenges Of Following A Keto Diet In India
1) Carbohydrate-Rich Indian Diet
One of the biggest challenges of following a keto diet in India is the traditional carbohydrate-rich diet. Many staple Indian foods such as rice, bread, and potatoes are high in carbohydrates, making it challenging to follow a low-carb diet. However, there are still plenty of low-carb Indian food options such as paneer, cauliflower rice, and spinach.
2) Limited Vegetarian Options
Many Indians follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, which can be challenging when following a keto diet. It can be difficult to get enough protein while staying within the limits of carbohydrate intake. Paneer, tofu, and nuts are the only options.
3) Lack Of Awareness And Resources
While the popularity of the keto diet has increased in recent years, there is still a lack of awareness and resources in India. This can make it challenging to find keto-friendly foods and recipes. What a person may do to deal with this is to look for online resources and keto diet communities in India that can provide support and instruction.
Also Read: Keto Diet: Benefits And Risks
Bottom Line
Following a keto diet in India can come with both benefits and challenges. However, with proper planning and preparation, it is possible to follow a keto diet while still enjoying traditional Indian foods. The key is to focus on healthy fats, low-carb vegetables, and high-quality protein sources.
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