What is the Keto Flu?
The Keto Flu is an illness that occurs when one’s body is getting used to the keto diet. Basically, when the body is taking this drastic change in diet and the very low carbs. With the Keto diet a low carb limit is included in it, meaning the body is not going to like the change very much.
With fuel for the body carbohydrates are the first fuel source. This is why we see runners and athletes eat heavy carbs a day prior to a large athletic event. In general too, the body is used to burning carbs for typical body functions such as walking, breathing, blinking and more. When you change the fuel source from a carb to a fat, this is when the body sometimes gets the “keto flu”. This is because fat is a secondary fuel when glucose is not burnable.
The burning of fat is called ketosis which is what this whole diet is around, burning fat. However, to reach this state studies show that carbs need to be reduced to under 50 grams per day.
Keto Flu Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Irritability
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Poor concentration
- Stomach pain
- Muscle soreness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sugar cravings
These symptoms typically last a week, however some may experience longer. This is a make or break moment for a lot of people who are trying the keto.
How to get rid of Keto Flu
Having the keto flu is no fun at all. You just want to lose weight and do the diet and go about your day. But on top of all this you get sick off of it. This is when people often search for how to get rid of the keto flu faster. Here are some tips:
- Avoid exercise
- Drink fluids to replenish electrolytes
- Get good sleep
- Make sure you are eating enough
Long story short, the keto diet has shown to be successful for a lot of people. But, make sure to consult your doctor before attempting the keto diet and make sure to put your overall health first verses losing weight.
