Keto cycling diet is the new go-to weight loss trick. Here’s everything you need to know | Health - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Keto cycling diet is the new go-to weight loss trick. Here’s everything you need to know

Hindustan Times | By
Jul 23, 2018 01:17 PM IST

Keto cycling, also called as Cyclical Ketogenic Diet, or CKD for short, is actually a less-restrictive form of keto (yes, this means more carbs. Yaaay!), for those who are looking for an alternative to this extreme diet.

Keto diet has seen sudden popularity because of its dramatic results. Almost everyone who’s looking to lose weight has contemplated on trying it out or has already slipped into ketosis (seasoned ketoers, we’re looking at you). But just like all fad diets that are still evolving, now there’s a new version of keto diet that is getting people excited. It’s called keto cycling.

Keto cycling diet: This new weight loss diet fad means having five to six days of strict ketogenic diet and then one cheat day of higher carbs.(Shutterstock)
Keto cycling diet: This new weight loss diet fad means having five to six days of strict ketogenic diet and then one cheat day of higher carbs.(Shutterstock)

What’s keto cycling?

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Keto cycling, also called as Cyclical Ketogenic Diet, or CKD for short, is actually a less-restrictive form of keto (yes, this means more carbs. Yaaay!), for those who are looking for an alternative to this extreme diet to lose weight and stay fit.

When you first start keto, you go on a zero-carb diet. And when your body shows withdrawal symptoms, you come down with “keto flu”. This means that your body shifts from burning carbs and sugar for energy to burning fat. And just like any flu, you’ll experience some symptoms such as headaches, stomach ache, insomnia and dizziness. But once your body is used to it, the symptoms fade out. However, if these symptoms continue it means that you’ve gone overboard with your carb restriction, which is where keto cycling comes into play.

Also read: Keto diet plan for weight loss, include these dishes to lose weight faster

So, keto cycling means having five to six days of strict ketogenic diet and then one cheat day of higher carbs. You eat low-carbs through the week and allow yourself one cheat meal day of high carb food. The goal is to switch out of ketosis to refill muscle glycogen.

So, should you try it?

According to experts there’s no concrete research into the benefits of keto cycling. Eating a low carb meal can be good for some, but may not work out for others. And if you’re following keto diet, as soon as you eat carbs, you’ll move out of ketosis.

However, going in and out of ketosis may not just benefit your hormones but may also help you deal with the diet in a better way. Giving yourself a few breaks can help you focus on the rest of the strict, structured days.

Also read: Perfect diet plan for weight loss, dietitians on how eating more fibre will help burn fat

Now, if you are worried about getting into ketosis again, then here’s a small tip. For people who have been on the keto diet for long can easily bounce back into ketosis. Also, opting for low GI complex carbs on your cheat days can help you make the transition easier.

But here are some things to keep in mind before you try Cyclical Ketogenic Diet or keto cycling.

Do not eat after 6pm on the last day of carb refeeding.

Also read: Diet and exercise tips, follow these fitness trends to lose weight fast, stay fit

Day 1 of keto diet: Wake up and perform HIIT or intense weight training on an empty stomach. After the workout start your keto diet with 0-2 % carbs.

Day 2 of keto diet: Wake up and perform MISS (medium intensity steady state) or medium intensity weight training, again on empty stomach. Return to normal keto diet with 3-5% of carb intake.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more

Oscars 2024: From Nominees to Red Carpet Glam! Get Exclusive Coverage on HT. Click Here

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On