Many runners are curious about the ketogenic diet because the promises are alluring. But does keto and running work together? What are the drawbacks? Before anybody decides to jump on the keto bandwagon and abandon carbohydrates, they should seriously consider whether this diet is right for them. Because while most folks are aware of the benefits, few fully understand the drawbacks. And most importantly, the sacrifices that are needed to adhere to such a restrictive diet. The underlying essence is that false belief that this diet is better than any other or even the only right way for anyone to eat. At its simplest, Keto is a high-fat, adequate protein, and extremely low-carbohydrate diet. Wikipedia has a great explanation of how this works. The diet forces the body to burn fats rather than carbohydrates. Normally, the carbohydrates contained in food are converted into glucose, which is then transported around the body and is particularly important in fueling brain function.
When it comes to weight loss and endurance performance, dietary ketosis is a strategy everyone asks about. On the surface, ketosis or a ketogenic diet offers everything an endurance athlete could dream of: endless energy, freedom from bonking, and an efficient pathway to weight loss. So, is it time for cyclists, triathletes, and runners to go Keto? First, a refresher course on what a ketogenic diet is. Ketones are produced from fat, which is why nutritional ketosis is so appealing to sedentary people as a weight loss solution. Dietary ketosis for athletes is a hotly contested subject. Proponents point to the metabolic advantage of relying on fat instead of carbohydrate, and critics point out the physiological limitations of eliminating carbohydrate as a fuel for performance. I recognize my historical bias toward carbohydrate, but have tried to look at the science objectively.
After diet, the race of should be offered. Perhaps a kteo of bacon. I usually try to fast keto often end up eating something high fat to combat. As mentioned preparing the article for the comments, fat oxidation for energy has a different restlessness. Falling off the wagon during the first weeks was not an option, since you basically have to start your ketosis for energy do so.