There are five different kinds of the Ketogenic Diet. Medical literature produces it as an effective disease treatment. These have basic metabolic dysregulation, such as epilepsy, cancer, and Alzheimer’s. The original Ketogenic Therapy is also known as the classic Ketogenic Diet. Dr. Russell Wilder designed it in 1923 at the Mayo Clinic for the treatment of epilepsy. All Ketogenic Diets are a variation of classic Keto, which is the most strict, seen by its ratio of fat to protein and carbs, also called the macronutrient ratio. Classic Keto carries a 4:1 ratio, which means that there are four parts fat for everyone part protein and carb.
Since fat has a higher caloric content versus protein and carbohydrates (fat has 9 calories per gram, while both protein . Carbohydrates have just 4 calories per gram). 90% of calories come from fat in a classic Ketogenic Diet, while 6% come from protein, and 4% come from the carb. The main difference between the five types of Ketogenic Diets is this macronutrient ratio.
All Ketogenic Diets are high in fat, adequate in protein, and low in carbohydrates. This combination changes the way of energy usage in the body. It converts fat into fatty acids and ketones in the liver. When there is an elevated level of ketones in the blood, one is in a state of ketosis, which has a variety of therapeutic benefits for the sick and healthy alike. In addition to the macronutrient ratio, the frequency of eating can influence ketosis. More specifically, a practice called intermittent fasting, which reduces the window of time a person eats throughout the day, can help in obtaining and sustaining ketosis. When the eating window is shortened, the body is forced to access energy from its own fat stores rather than calories directly from the diet.
CLASSIC KETO
An individualized and structured diet that provides specific meal plans. Foods are weighed and meals should be consumed in their entirety for best results.
Macronutrient Ratio: 4:1
MODIFIED KETO
Modifying the restrictiveness of classic keto can be helpful when starting the diet, or when tapering down to a more sustainable, long-term diet.
Macronutrient Ratio: 3:1 to 1:1 (range)
MCT
An individualized and structured diet containing highly ketogenic Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT), allowing for more carb and protein than classic keto
MODIFIED ATKINS
Limits the amount of carbohydrate, encourages fat, and does not limit protein. Carbohydrates are to be accompanied by fat when consumed.
LOW GLYCEMIC INDEX
An individualized but less structured diet uses exchange lists for planning meals and emphasizes complex carbohydrates. It is not intended to promote ketosis.
Macronutrient Ratio: 2:3
INTERMITTENT FASTING
A dietary intervention that shifts the body into ketosis by limiting the window of time one eats during the day, forcing the body to access energy from body fat.
Macronutrient Ratio: N/A
The chart below outlines the macronutrient ratios and their caloric percentage counterpart for different variations of the ketogenic diet.https://ideaschedule.com/
LIFESTYLE AND OTHER FACTORS
Ketogenic therapy includes more than just diet. Nutritional supplements, electrolytes, hydration, and activity levels are also key. Individuals who are suffering from digestive problems generally need additional support. This is where an experienced ketogenic specialist can be extremely helpful. Monitoring ketosis is another important aspect of therapy. Ketosis can be measured by three different methods: Blood, breath, and urine. Blood readings are the most accurate and reliable method of testing, though it is also the most expensive. Urine strips provide an affordable option, though readings can vary widely based on hydration. Breath monitors have similarly varying results, and a higher entry price, though the technology is improving.
Think the ketogenic diet is right for you? Talk to your doctor before adopting a ketogenic diet, or connect with one of our qualified diet professionals to determine a course of action that is right for you.
