Suffering from the "Keto Flu?"

Suffering from the "Keto Flu?"

Keto “Flu”

You’ve joined the thousands on the Keto Diet but now you’re feeling sick. What’s going on? Your body is adjusting to your new way of eating and you are experiencing what is commonly referred to as the “Keto Flu”. This encompasses a group of symptoms that you may experience for the first few days and up to two weeks while you are beginning the Keto Diet. Everyone is different so you may suffer from one or more of the following:

  • Brain Fog
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle soreness
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability

Why is this happening?

The first couple weeks on the ketogenic diet is when your body loses a significant amount of water along with essential electrolytes including sodium and potassium, magnesium and calcium. Decreases in these levels may lead to one or more of the Keto Flu symptoms. It is important to supplement your diet with high quality products to replenish these valuable nutrients. Good options would be Biochem Plant proteins, Whey Protein Isolate or the delicious Hydro Recovery drink mix which not only includes valuable electrolytes but also BCAA’s. For additional high-quality mineral supplementation choose Country Life’s Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium or Total Mins products.

Ways to help alleviate symptoms

1. Make sure you keep moving

Exercise is not only beneficial for achieving your weight loss goals but also aids in circulation. Increasing your workouts may help reduce some of your symptoms.

2. Stay hydrated

Hydration is important as a rule, but when you are dieting it is an extremely important part of your success, especially when you are following the Keto Diet. The first few weeks you’ll be flushing a lot of water, so you must replace it.

3. Supplement your minerals

Taking a high-quality mineral supplement is important for many of us, but very important on the ketogenic diet.

4. Eat more fiber

Consuming fiber is important for regularity and many vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and greens are high in fiber. Avocados are also high in fiber AND good fats.

You are changing your diet and your body will be making adjustments as well to adapt to your new routine. Remember to always check with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program.

Audrey Ross, ND

Senior National Educator

Dr. Ross travels the country speaking to consumers and retailers on a variety of topics including supplements to best support different lifestyles and diets.

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