why the keto diet might be right for you

As the owner of Naturally Delightful, an allergy-friendly Green Bay bakery that specializes in organic, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free products, the primary purpose of my job is to make delicious food for people with all dietary needs and backgrounds to safely enjoy.

​However, it is also my job, and in my business's best interest, to stay up to speed with the ebb and flow of the many different food trends. So when ketogenic became a mainstream option for low-carb and high-fat nutrition, I knew that I needed to make products that fit this description available in my bakery.

Naturally Delightful now offers several different  items that help our keto-customers cut the carbs without having to cut the taste. We prepare ketogenic cakes, cookies, cupcakes, muffins, energy bites, and cheesecakes that promote ketosis, the body's process of breaking down protein and fat for energy.  

health benefits of a keto diet

If you have ever wondered whether keto is right for you, there are several different health benefits that a diet that is low in carbs and high in fat and protein can offer. ​

1. weight loss

Perhaps the most popular reason that people subscribe to the keto diet is an attempt to attain a healthier weight. The physiology behind this process is twofold:

• ​Between 70% and 80% of the calories of a keto diet are derived from fat. So by limiting the intake of glucose, typically in the form of carbohydrate deprivation, you have essentially cut off your body's main supplier of energy. Your body responds by burning fat instead, prompting the liver to produce a chemical called ketones. Ketones are acids that are sent to the bloodstream. Muscles and other tissues convert them into fuel for the body to use when there is a shortage of carbs. 
• ​The other way a keto diet that is properly followed can help facilitate weight loss is simply by making you feel fuller for longer periods of time. Eating fats and proteins satiate your appetite, which typically reduces the number of trips you will find yourself making to the kitchen for snacks in-between meals.

2. skin clarity

The condition of your skin is a very visible and public representation of your overall well-being. The keto diet can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your appearance by supporting epidermal health.

A diet that is high in refined carbs can spike your blood sugar, and as your body tries to remove this sugar, it can initiate an inflammatory response. So when you eliminate these trigger-foods by committing to a keto diet, you also remove one of the variables responsible for blemishes and other skin irritations.   

3. blood sugar

A keto diet is specifically designed to lower your intake of foods that are high in carbohydrates. So as long as it is properly followed and regulated, it can also be an avenue to maintaining healthy levels of blood sugar.

Healthy blood sugar levels are connected to improvements in:

• Heart Health
• Weight control
• Stress hormone management
  
• Reduced inflammation
  

For people who are diabetic, regulating blood sugar levels is a critical part of their daily life. The basic principles of a keto diet may be a means to help them monitor and manage their health. However, dietary decisions, especially in these circumstances, need to first be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider. 

5. Cognitive and physical energy

If you decide to try the keto diet, you may experience preliminary bouts of fatigue and what is commonly referred to as "brain fog." This is due to your body transitioning from burning carb-fuel to relying on fat-fuel. 

However, once you are fully emerged in ketosis, the metabolic state when your body's energy is derived from ketones instead of carbohydrates, you may recognize improved performance in both the way you think and the way you feel. This is primarily due to the more robust, clean, and efficient fuel that ketones provide to your body and your brain.

keto diet resources

Navigating the market to find the right dietary resources can be just as intimidating as actually going on the diet. The beginner-friendly books below are perfect for anyone, no matter if you're simply weighing keto as an option, already in the beginning phases of the diet, or even fully immersed and interested in further expanding your knowledge.

The Complete Ketogenic Diet for Beginners by Amy Ramos

Keto Diet: Your 30-Day Plan To Lose Weight, Balance Hormones, Boost Brain Health, and Reverse Disease by Dr. Josh Axe

Keto Cookbook for Beginners by Gerald Hubbell

​GREEN BAY'S FINEST ORGANIC, GLUTEN-FREE, AND VEGAN BAKERY

If you are looking for a way to reap the health benefits of starting a ketogenic diet without sacrificing the flavor of your favorite foods, visit us at Naturally Delightful, Green Bay's finest organic, gluten-free, and vegan bakery. We have keto cakes, cookies, cupcakes, muffins and more for our customers who want to cut the carbs without cutting the taste. Whether you are planning a big event or just looking to satisfy a personal craving, at Naturally Delightful we offer all of our customers a 100% satisfaction and smile guarantee!