So you wanna go keto? Here are some of my time-tested tips…

Posted In: Coaching May 23rd, 2017 divider No Comments »

Keto is all the rage these days, and there are some good reasons for that. I’ll start off by explaining what keto(genic diet) means for me. Keto means transferring your body from a sugar/carb dependent metabolism to become a fat burning beast. There are many benefits, and some drawbacks, but unfortunately I won’t be able to get to those today.

Well I’ve been mostly keto now for almost a year. It didn’t happen overnight and I already had a headstart since I came from the slow carb camp.

Here are some tips that helped me tremendously get into the keto lifestyle:

• Fasting: This is key in my opinion. Getting the body used to burn its fat for energy is basically what this lifestyle is all about. Just start with skipping breakfast (or dinner) one day and go from there. Baby steps.
• Fasted workouts: These are also key as they accelerate your body’s path to ketosis. Just try to keep the intensity down, especially when you start out.
• Measure: The two most basic ways to test your ketones is prick ($$$) and pee sticks ($). The blood ones are more accurate but also way more expensive. The cool thing is that when you become fat adapted, you have a very good idea when you’re in the zone and when you’re not.
• Macros: I can almost guarantee you won’t get it right the first time. I didn’t. That’s why it’s good to record your macros for the first few months, and yes there’s an app for that. Quick tip: Less protein and more fat. Always more fat!
• “Fat” coffee: Some bastardization of Bulletproof Coffee is a great way to help get into ketosis in the morning. Have it with your favourite form of fat (butter, fat, heavy cream, coconut or MCT oil) and get ready for your brain to be on fire.
• Carb cycling: I do have carb heavy meals but very infrequently. I usually have one carb-intensive meal every 2 or 3 weeks to replenish the tank and for pure enjoyment. Remember to make smart choices but it shouldn’t be torture 24/7…

I hope these help. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Now, bring on the questions!

And know that I’m not a doctor and I don’t play one on the internet so check wih your medical professional before attempting any of this…

And I will be having an info session early next month in Ottawa (and soon online) on how to basically change fuel sources. So come out with an open mind and some great questions!