Four indicators that you are keto-adapted
To become fat-adapted the body will pass through a phase known as keto-flu. The keto-flu is a collection of symptoms experienced by some people when they first start the keto diet. These symptoms, which can feel similar to the flu, are caused by the body adapting to a new diet consisting of a low carbohydrate intake.
If you are new to the ketogenic way of eating:
- How do you know if your body can burn fat?
- Are you burning ketones or carbhydrates?
- How do you know if you are keto-adapted or not?
Below we list seven ways you can verify you are keto-adapted, without spending any money in the process.
1. Noticeable change in energy level
The first few weeks of the keto diet will require persistence and keeping your mind on the end-goal. You will experience a general lack of energy as your body adapts to burning fat instead of carbohydrates.
Your metabolism will eventually switch to burning fat and blood sugar levels will stabilise. Your energy level will begin to improve. If you already feel you are already motived by increased energy levels, then it is likely your body has adapted.
2. Sleeping becomes easier
If you struggled to sleep before you started the keto diet, you will likely find that your quality of sleep improves over time. Many people who have become keto-adapted experience restful sleep patterns, leaving them more refreshed and energized.
Useful tip: Add a little magnesium to a glass of water before retiring, it helps many in achieving a good night’s rest.
3. Zero Carb-Cravings
If you consumed a lot of sugar before you started the keto diet, you will find cravings steadily decreasing over time. A timely reminder that previously your body used carbohydrates as its immediate energy source.
Equally, if you enjoyed foods like pizza, burgers and sweet treats you will experience a carbohydrate withdrawal. Persevere, these cravings will stop altogether once your body is fat-adapted.
4. Endurance
Once you become fat-adapted, your body will use fat for energy and will burn fat reserves more rapidly. During high endurance activities, you will experience increased stamina, as opposed to glucose stores that are typically depleted within the hour. Simply put, you'll have the ability to maintain your energy levels, when fat-adapted, as opposed to energy-crashing from ‘crashing’ carbohydrates. The keto diet isn't a magic source of energy; it’s a logical source of energy. If you are true to the programme and consistently eat the right amounts of fat, you will maintain ketosis.
There is no real need to count macros and calories if you can see yourself losing weight. The way you feel, and look, will be your ultimate guide.