The Ketogenic Diet is a nutritional regimen characterized by a very low intake of carbohydrates, a moderate intake of protein, and a high intake of dietary fats, fundamentally altering the body’s primary fuel source. This specific macronutrient ratio forces the liver to convert fatty acids into ketone bodies, such as beta-hydroxybutyrate, which then serve as an alternative energy substrate for the brain and other tissues. Clinically, this diet is employed to enhance metabolic flexibility, improve insulin sensitivity, and support neurological health.
Origin
The diet originated in the 1920s as a therapeutic intervention for pediatric epilepsy, designed to mimic the anti-seizure effects of fasting. The term ‘ketogenic’ is descriptive, referring to the metabolic state of ketosis that the diet induces, characterized by the production of ketones.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism is the severe reduction of glucose availability, which lowers circulating insulin levels and elevates glucagon. This hormonal shift signals the adipose tissue to release fatty acids and the liver to initiate ketogenesis. The resulting ketone bodies act as signaling molecules, influencing gene expression and reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, the sustained low insulin state promotes lipolysis and can significantly improve the body’s response to other hormones, optimizing overall metabolic function.
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