One of the significant challenges of implementing ketogenic diets and intermittent fasting is the initial “keto flu” phase that many people experience. This period of flu-like symptoms can be highly discouraging and may deter individuals from continuing the diet.

However, these symptoms are temporary and typically resolve within a few days to a few weeks as the body adapts to fats and uses ketones for fuel. I have outlined a seven-step solution to accelerate the recovery and adaptation phase.

Despite the initial difficulties, the potential health benefits of ketogenic diets make it worth considering for those who are looking to improve their overall well-being.

Once the body becomes fat-adapted, it is easier to lose visceral fat, stay insulin sensitive, maintain a healthy weight, and keep lean muscles.

The “keto flu” is a common term used to describe a group of symptoms that some people experience when transitioning to a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting regimen.

These symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, dizziness, irritability, nausea, muscle cramps, constipation, diarrhea, and sleeping issues.

Only some people who start a keto diet or intermittent fasting might experience these symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

In some cases, the symptoms may be milder and resolve quickly, while in others, they may be more severe and take longer to resolve. I want to inform you of the known reasons behind these symptoms based on my experience, reviews, and interactions with others.

Reasons Behind Symptoms

The key reasons can be categorized under seven headings. First, I list the reason, and then I briefly explain them.

The reasons are dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, carbohydrate withdrawal, insufficient nutrients, a sudden increase in physical activity, individual differences, and underlying health conditions.

When the body is in ketosis, it tends to excrete more water and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration if not adequately compensated for.

The ketogenic diet can also cause imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, contributing to symptoms like fatigue and muscle cramps.

Going from a diet that is high in carbohydrates to one that is very low in carbohydrates can cause withdrawal symptoms in some people. This is because carbohydrates play a role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood.

If you start a new exercise routine simultaneously as starting a ketogenic diet or implementing intermittent fasting, this could contribute to fatigue and muscle cramps. This can lead to a greater severity or duration of “keto flu” symptoms.

Ensure to consume enough micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, when following a keto diet or intermittent fasting. A deficiency in certain nutrients can cause symptoms like fatigue and irritability.

Everyone is different, and some people may be more sensitive to the changes that occur when transitioning to a keto diet or intermittent fasting.

It is essential to recognize that every individual is unique and that what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. As such, it is crucial to avoid blindly following the exact protocol of others and to instead tailor your approach to your own individual needs and circumstances.

This is particularly important if you have any underlying health conditions, as these may require specialized support and guidance from qualified healthcare professionals.

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of any dietary or lifestyle changes, it is essential to obtain the approval and support of your healthcare team if you have specific health disorders.

You can check practical tips in the attached article on Medium.

Here’s Why People Quit Keto Diets and Intermittent Fasting Quickly and How to Fix the Issues Timely.

View at Medium.com

Besides aiming to increase the hormonal intelligence of my readers and writing about neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, GABA, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and adrenalin, one of my goals as a writer is to raise awareness about the causes and risk factors of prevalent diseases that can lead to suffering and death for a large portion of the population.

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