With all the emphasis on physical health and fitness these days, all of us are constantly looking for effective diet plans that can do the trick. With all the options and mixed feedback available, it can be overwhelming for one to decide what’s best for them. Depending on factors such as body type, metabolism, health conditions, genes etc, what works for one person will not work for another so it’s best to do careful research and understand your individual requirements before you proceed to try out any diet.
We spoke to certified nutritionist Nezihe Hussain about two of the most popular regimens these days, the Ketogenic (Keto) diet and intermittent fasting, to better understand what each is about.
What it entails
Ketogenesis is the biochemical process by which organisms produce a group of substances, collectively known as ketone bodies, by the breakdown of fatty acids and ketogenic amino acids. In simpler words- the keto diet relies on a process in the body that kicks in when the body is “starved” of quick glucose making foods i.e. carbohydrates. The body then uses the fat to produce the ATP molecule that our cells need to survive.
Who should do it
Anyone who has tried calorie counting and working out and not achieved the desired weight loss. Typically recommended for those who are obese.
Pros
The results are faster than other diets and this is very encouraging to those who have not seen results with other plans.
Cons
The human body is a complex system of metabolic cycles and processes. With food intake limited to only fats and protein, the Keto diet slows down the natural metabolism which is designed to digest and utilize all the different food groups.
What it entails
Intermittent fasting, or intermittent calorie restriction, is an umbrella term for various diets that cycle between a period of fasting and non-fasting. Intermittent fasting may produce weight loss comparable to long-term calorie restriction.
Who should do this
Anyone who wants to maintain their weight and detox on a regular basis.
Pros
It allows all food groups and forces one to hydrate more than normal. As we are in the state of 1st-2nd degree of dehydration at all times, this is beneficial. It also helps in decreasing one’s appetite over time and the person will be less prone to binge eat after regular intermittent fasting.
Cons
As mentioned above, the human body is designed to digest different foods at regular intervals. During long periods of fasting, acid production in the stomach can lead to acidity and reflux. It also puts the body in the FLIGHT or FIGHT mode which results in increased adrenaline production, which in turn can lead to adrenal insufficiency.
