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=What is the Ketogenic Diet?=
The word "ketogenic" literally means that it creates [[Ketones]]. Our bodies produce ketones from fat when carbohydrates become scarce. To trigger ketosis (the production of ketones) we normally have to restrict carbohydrate intake to a very low level. The exact amount of carbohydrate varies by individual, but often it has to be restricted to less than 20g/day. (Normally the amount [[Fiber]] is ignored in the diet, and a figure of [[Net CarbohydrateCarbohydrates]] is are used.) Because the body will convert protein to glucose, it is also necessary to tightly control the intake of protein. Too much protein will prevent ketosis, but to a little will cause malnutrition. Some authors recommend the RDA for protein, while others suggest 0.6 to 1.0 grams per pound of lean body mass. When carbohydrate availability is restricted, the body does not immediately swap over to using fat and ketones, but rather there is a period of adaptation often referred to as [[Ketoadaptation]]. This made last a few weeks, and some people report feeling sluggish during this time. The ketogenic diet entails some potentially serious health risks, so medical supervision is required, along with regular tests and diet supplements. The ketogenic diet is one of the more stringent [[Low Carbohydrate Diets]], and should not be taken lightly.
=Are Carbohydrates Necessary?=
|[[File:Art-and-Science-of-Low-Carbohydrate-Living-Book-Cover.jpg|none|thumb|200px|[http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Science-Carbohydrate-Living/dp/0983490708 The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living] is an easy to read and entertaining look at the ketogenic diet. However, the book is biased in favor of the ketogenic diet, and it does not have a well balanced view that includes a comprehensive review of the risks.]]
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|[[File:KetogenicMcdonald.jpg|none|thumb|200px|[http://www.amazon.com/The-Ketogenic-Diet-Complete-Practitioner/dp/0967145600 The Ketogenic Diet: A Complete Guide for the Dieter and Practitioner] is an interesting book, and while I believe it's worth reading, I find myself unconvinced by the evidence it presents. I think that this book is worth reading, but look Look to Kossoff's book as a better source of information.]]
|[[File:anslowcarbperf.JPG|none|thumb|200px|[http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Science-Carbohydrate-Performance/dp/0983490716 The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Performance] is obviously focused on the ketogenic diet for athletes. While it suffers from the same bias as the "The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living", it is highly recommended for any athlete who is considering the ketogenic diet.]]
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