Keto vs Ketosis

The term “Keto” started as an abbreviation for a new, expanding dietary regimen with wonderful promise. But with the predictable hijacking of the term by major food producers and manufacturers it has become a fraud, a label that misrepresents a dietary regimen. “Ketosis,” the correct term, is a natural metabolic system. It’s important to understand these words properly today.

When ketogenic diets first became a “thing,” everyone had to try it at least once. Soon thereafter food manufacturers became aware of the new diet craze and developed a slew of “Keto friendly” foods, only they aren’t.

Officially, a “Keto friendly” food would be a food that does not lead to insulin resistance and encourages the synthesis of fat, but food manufacturers made it a term that means “Low Carb.” Of course, they determine what constitutes “Low Carb.” Ketogenic foods on the other hand are foods that stimulate the production of ketones instead of insulin. So, when the so-called Keto food contains chemicals and processed ingredients that spike insulin it is anything but “Keto friendly.” Once again, food processors have hijacked an otherwise good thing to sell their products. This has happened so many times before with terms like, Low Fat, Diet, Sugar Free, Cholesterol Free, Natural, Organic, Non-GMO, etc.

Ketosis is the metabolic system that converts fats to sugar for energy. This is the preferred metabolic system for our bodies because it is sustainable, and it is from fats that we obtain all the vital nutrients our bodies need to maintain health. It is precisely because we have traded off ketosis for insulin that we are now so unhealthy. Nearly every disease, mental, emotional, and physical can be traced quite convincingly to Insulin Resistance.

Ketosis is the cure for Insulin Resistance. It is in a Ketogenic state that we also enter Autophagy, a state in which the body repairs and replaces damaged cells. Ketosis occurs when there is no Insulin Resistance, and blood glucose is lowered. This state can be achieved by eating more fatty foods and reducing carbohydrate consumption and is enhanced by fasting.

In conclusion, Keto is not necessarily Ketosis friendly. Read the labels. Look for the good fats, mono and polyunsaturated fats, look for a balance of omega-3s and omega-6s. Avoid processed carbohydrates such as are found in processed sugars, flours, juices, and are found in almost every processed food.

Avoid processed plant oils. These mess with the mitochondria and cause prolonged insulin resistance. Chemical food additives also cause insulin resistance.

About now you’re probably asking, “Well, then what can I eat?” Exactly.  You could probably reduce the local grocery store to a couple of shelves and still have issue with it. But here’s the thing, insulin resistance is responsible for inflammation which appears as obesity and is the leading cause of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's, dementia, and more.

It's a simple equation, stop insulin resistance, live longer and better.

So, don’t be fooled by “Keto Friendly.” Read the labels.

Check out the links on the left to videos about Ketosis.