You’ve heard the rage about the keto diet and finally decided that this low-carb, high-fat way of eating could be just the thing to help you shed those excess pounds, increase your energy levels, and improve your overall health. The only problem is, you’re not quite sure where to start. Fortunately, this comprehensive beginner’s guide to the keto diet explains everything you need to know in order to get started on the keto diet, including how it works and how keto meal prep delivery in Tampa can propel your diet to the next level.

What Is the Keto Diet and How Does it Work?

The keto diet was originally introduced in the 1920s by modern physicians as a treatment for epilepsy when researchers discovered that, by augmenting the patient’s diet, ketosis was triggered, and epileptic symptoms tended to subside. However, in this process, reduced levels of hunger and weight loss were also documented, eventually leading to the popularity of the keto diet we know of today. But, what exactly is the keto diet or ketosis?

Essentially, the keto diet is based on the concept that your body produces chemicals known as ketones from stored fat. Normally, your body fuels itself off glucose that’s produced when it breaks down carbohydrates. When you keep your carb levels down, however, your body seeks other sources of energy to fill this void and chooses these ketones, leading to more stable energy levels, decreased hunger, and other health benefits. Thus, the keto diet itself is super high in fat (approximately 80 percent of your daily calories), super low in carbohydrates (less than 5 percent of your daily calories), and moderate in protein (approximately 15 to 20 percent of your daily calories) in order to achieve this nutritional state, known as ketosis.

Is the Keto Diet Right For You?

A ketogenic diet is fantastic for some people, but it may not be a lifelong diet for everyone. For example, it may be dangerous for individuals with type 1 diabetes, as the diet can increase the risk for life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis — a serious complication that occurs when the body produces excess ketones and not enough insulin for the body. People with a history of disordered eating may want to avoid the keto diet as well, as severely limiting your carb intake could actively increase the risk of bingeing or compulsive overeating. In general, you’ll always want to first consult with your doctor before deciding whether keto is the best diet for your lifestyle.

How Can You Get Started on Keto?

If you’ve consulted with your doctor and decided that the keto diet is a great fit for your lifestyle, health goals, and dietary preferences, here are a few simple steps to get you started in the right direction:

Know What Foods You Can Eat & Which to Avoid

To reach the coveted state of ketosis, you’ll want to focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that satisfy the macro balance previously discussed, such as coconut butter, fattier cuts of beef, and wild-caught fish, and avoid those high in carbohydrates, such as wheat products, fruits, and margarine.

Calculate Your Calorie Goal & Macros

Understanding your keto macros and daily calorie goal is fundamental to your success on the keto diet. The easiest way to calculate these figures is with an online calorie counter or fitness app able to estimate your daily needs.

Meal Plan Like a Pro

Last but certainly not least, you’ll want a meal plan that takes the guesswork out of macro counting, makes your keto diet easy and delicious, and satisfies your taste buds. At Whole Body Fuel, we provide the best keto meal prep delivery in Tampa directly from our kitchen to your door with perfect nutritional balance for your diet plan. That means expertly crafted meals nearly devoid of all carbohydrates, jam-packed with healthy fats, and created from regionally and locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. Some of our most popular ketogenic-friendly meals include Blackened Turkey with Garlic Creamed Kale and Crispy Brussel Sprouts, Pork Tenderloin Bulgogi with Sriracha Emulsion and Asian Slaw, and Pulled Turkey Mole with Steamed Green Beans, Cotija Cheese, and Pepita Seeds. Sign up today to experience the delicious and healthy goodness that’s helping people across the Tampa Bay Area stay on track while loving what they eat.

Looking for keto meal prep delivery in Tampa? Whole Body Fuel is a subscription-based meal prep delivery service that brings chef-made, locally sourced meals right to your door. To get your first week of meal delivery, place your order online today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute health advice and is not intended to be a substitute for professional dietary counsel.