Extraordinary Health Magazine EHMagazine Vol 38_Final | Page 8

Time to Make a Change?
The Ketogenic Diet
May be the Answer
by David Perlmutter, M.D., F.A.C.N
Simply put, a ketogenic diet typically derives about 70-to-80% of
total calories from healthful fats. The remaining 20-to-30% of calories
are derived from carbohydrates and proteins. Eating like this puts your
body in a state of ketosis in which it primarily burns fat for energy.
To get into and stay in ketosis, you must restrict carbs and sugar—less
than 50 grams per day. This initiates your body to burn the remaining
carbohydrates present, after which it moves on to stored glucose
(glycogen), and finally it taps into ketones. Ketones are produced by
the liver and readily used by the body for potent energy production
and critical brain-related functions.
Ketones are a cellular “superfuel,” and one in particular—beta-
hydroxybutyrate (BHB)—drives powerful, beneficial processes. Beta-
hydroxybutyrate is important for the regulation of the expression of
important genes, inflammation regulation, immune system activity,
and even antioxidant function. This important ketone is one of the
fundamental reasons the keto diet is so beneficial.
Prior to any dietary change, you should consult your healthcare
provider. With that in mind, a ketogenic diet may be a good fit for you.
6 Vol 38 • Extraordinary Health ™