Is it possible to get all the nutrients you need from keto-friendly foods?
The short answer is No. It is not possible to get all the necessary micronutrients and vitamins from a Ketogenic diet. Actually its possible but then you would have to eat a lot lot lot of green leafy vegetables. This is where supplementation comes in. Taking supplements during a Ketogenic diet not only provide your body with all the essentials vitamins and minerals but also aids in weight loss.
Here are our top 3 supplements that are a must when you are on a Ketogenic diet –
- Electrolytes:
Electrolytes such as Sodium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Calcium play an important role in many important internal body functions. Due to low carb nature of the Keto diet, a person on keto loses these electrolytes much faster and hence should be replenished using supplements. Deficiency of these electrolytes my lead to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and constipation etc.
- MCT Oil:
MCTs stands for “medium-chain triglycerides,” and they’re a type of fat the body can use for energy right away instead of storing them as fat. On the ketogenic diet, MCT oil is a source of fat that can quickly boost energy levels by increasing ketone production effectively and hence is one of the key supplements used by individuals on Keto diet.
- Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is incredibly important because it enables your body to digest all other kinds of nutrients. Deficiency of Vitamin D may lead to mood swings, poor muscle metabolism etc. Even an individual with a balanced diet may be deficient in vitamin D, so it becomes all the more important for those on Keto diet to supplement vitamin D as the chances of deficiency are more.
Final word:
When you begin any new diet/ supplement, be sure to consult with your doctor and discuss your medical history before taking up the new eating habits.
Apart from the supplements listed above, make sure to eat a lot of leafy vegetables which are loaded with fiber and nutrients. This will ensure smooth bowel movements.