Ketogenic diets keep making the headlines. No wonder low carb, keto and “keto-ish” diets are more popular than ever. It seems like every day there’s a new celebrity who swears this way of eating has changed his or her life and physique. I believe Atkins may be the better keto approach, and it’s encouraging to see the science that continues to support the efficacy and safety of carb restriction. The benefits extend beyond just weight loss and include reduced inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity and decreased hunger and cravings. Imagine reversing the course of your type-2 diabetes and ditching your blood sugar lowering and blood pressure medications just by changing the way you eat, with weight loss being another pleasant side effect.
I recently attended a “meeting of the low carb minds” at Ohio State University called the Emerging Science of Carbohydrate Restriction and Nutritional Ketosis, where topics ranged from basic molecular functions of ketones as signaling molecules to practical treatments for cancer, metabolic, heart and neurological disorders. The event also explored public policy and health guidelines that stand in the way of adopting ketogenic treatments and examined the practical role of nutritional ketosis in ultra-endurance and in professional sports teams.
I think the science behind low carb nutrition is fascinating, and if you’re interested in learning more for yourself, you can take a look at the videos and presentations from this conference to see what the low carb thought-leaders are saying!